Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa
Tash Tobias, CEO, Salter Brothers Hospitality

Salter Brothers Hospitality (SBH), the management arm of Australia’s second largest hotel owner, Salter Brothers, is embarking on a new era of growth emboldened by a powerful leadership team of experienced hospitality executives.

With Tash Tobias at the helm as CEO, SBH has grown its management portfolio from zero to 20 hotels since launching the business just 15 months ago.

Now, with several recent additions to the team, promotion of a key executive, and the unveiling of a new brand identity last month, SBH is primed for further growth in 2025 with the ambitious goal of solidifying its position as the leading luxury retreat hotel operator in Australia.

“Last year, we unveiled our new brand and ambitious vision for the future of SBH,” said Tobias

“We have taken another big step forward by strengthening our team.”

High-profile hires at SBH

The latest addition to the SBH leadership team is marketing powerhouse, Victoria Peterson, who joined as Director of Marketing Performance this month.

With an impressive background in luxury hotel marketing including roles at The Langham Gold Coast, InterContinental Hayman Island and InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Peterson is recognised for her passion for excellence, adaptability, and ability to craft compelling narratives.

Victoria Peterson, Director of Marketing Performance, SBH

“Victoria Peterson is a dynamic and accomplished leader, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the SBH family,” Tobias said.

“Victoria’s wealth of hospitality experience, passion, and leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve.” 

Reporting to Chief Commercial Officer John Thompson, Peterson will play a valuable role in amplifying brand visibility, driving revenue and enhanced guest experience.

“I am incredibly excited to join Salter Brothers Hospitality at such an exciting time of growth for the group,” Peterson said of her appointment.

“I am really looking forward to working with the team to continue to redefine excellence in hospitality across our luxury retreat hotels and restaurants.”

Experienced GMs join the fold

Several experienced hoteliers have also joined the SBH network in late 2024, taking hotel operations to new heights.

Sandra Kloprogge, Regional General Manager, SBH

Sandra Kloprogge has commenced the role of Regional General Manager, overseeing Lilianfels, Hydro Majestic, Milton Park, Parklands and Spicers Sangoma Retreat.

Kloprogge brings a wealth of experience from 30+ years with InterContinental Hotels Group, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership and management skills, contributing greatly to an elevated  guest experience and improved operational efficiency.

“Sandra’s expertise in managing luxury hotels, both locally and internationally, and her deep understanding of the hospitality landscape make her an ideal fit for this position,” Tobias said.

David McDonald, General Manager, Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa

At Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa, David McDonald recently stepped into the General Manager role following a three-year stint with Cricket NSW spanning commercial, venue management and development.

Having worked with several hotel operators including Accor, IHG and TFE Hotels, McDonald is experienced in running resort-style properties.

Further north but staying in NSW, Shaun O’Bryan has been named Regional General Manager, Hunter Valley, overseeing Spicers Guesthouse, Spicers Vineyard Estate and The Convent.

Shaun O’Bryan, Regional General Manager, Hunter Valley, SBH

Throughout his 30-year hospitality career, O’Bryan has held multiple leadership positions at some of the world’s most prestigious luxury hotels and resorts, including The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Ojai Valley Inn, and Belmond El Encanto in California.

Prior to joining SBH, he served as Minor Hotels Cluster General Manager for Regional NSW, overseeing a portfolio of six properties, including Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort and Elysia Wellness Retreat.

O’Bryan is passionate about the Hunter Valley, serving as secretary of the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association (HVWTA) and holds a position on the NSW State Advisory Committee for Accommodation Australia (AA), a division of the AHA.

A new role to drive development

Leading SBH’s development strategy is seasoned hospitality professional Raphael Antonini, who was recently promoted to Chief Development Officer, a newly created role within the Executive Committee.

Since joining Salter Brothers in 2021 as Director – Acquisitions, Development & Strategy, Antonini has played an instrumental role in growing its extensive portfolio of hotel assets.

Raphael Antonini, Chief Development Officer, SBH

His extensive experience in real estate and investment includes roles at major global players such as Hilton, JLL and CBRE, and he is recognised for playing a key role in the establishment of Ovolo and Crystalbrook Collection in Australia.

In addition to expanding the footprint of SBH by securing new properties under management or brand licences, and leading the Design and Technical Services function, Antonini will also spearhead the brand development function, ensuring their Spicers Retreats, Ardour Hotels & Estates and Bannisters brands are positioned for success.

“We’ve taken an important and bold approach for the future of SBH – we have a definitive brand identity that sets us apart from conventional hotel investment models,” Antonini said.

Andrea Richards, Chief Operating Officer, SBH

“We’re not just operating properties, we’re crafting experiences. We’ve got the know-how, the passion, and the mettle to deliver something truly special. That’s the essence of SBH.” 

Tobias is confident that Antonini’s promotion will produce great results for the business.

“We are thrilled to see Rapha step into this new role on the senior leadership team,” said Tobias.

“We are incredibly excited about the future of SBH and the possibilities that lie ahead.”

A solid leadership foundation

The latest hires and promotions build on a solid leadership foundation at SBH with a team committed to delivering exceptional results, nurturing talent, and driving sustainable growth.

Robert Curnow, Chief Financial Officer, SBH

Tobias brings an in-depth knowledge of hotel operations having held numerous general manager roles across Asia throughout her career.

John Thompson, Chief Commercial Officer, SBH

Her diverse career background also includes a three-year stint with Virgin Australia, where she headed up Customer Experience, Cabin Crew and Product, and an executive leadership role at Brisbane City Council, managing the Lifestyle and Community Services division.

She is driven by a strong commitment to excellence, innovation, and building a thriving and inclusive workplace.

Chief Financial Officer Robert Curnow, who joined SBH in early 2024, brings a wealth of experience from 14 years with Accor and more than 36 years in the finance side of hospitality.

After almost 10 years with Spicers Retreats, Andrea Richards moved into the Chief Operating Officer role at SBH in April 2023, while Chief Commercial Officer John Thompson brings years of experience with Minor Hotels, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Worldwide, as well as two years as QLD & NT State Advisory Committee Member for Accommodation Australia.

For more information, visit salterbrothershospitality.com