Faculty & Research
Gerald Lawless
Executive Chairman
Jumeirah Group
In 1997, Gerald joined Jumeirah in Dubai as Managing Director. His remit was to develop a hospitality portfolio that would deliver a completely different experience. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Wild Wadi Water Park, and Burj Al Arab quickly set the standard for the regional and international growth to follow.
In January 2007, Gerald was appointed Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group and continues to lead its ambitious growth to become the most distinctive and innovative hospitality group in the world. This ambition is expressed by the brand as "Jumeirah – STAY DIFFERENT™".
Gerald spent the first 23 years of his career with Forte Hotels managing properties in the United Kingdom, South Africa, Ireland and the Caribbean. In 1991 he established Forte's Middle East office in Dubai, and oversaw growth in the region from three to twenty hotels in six years.
Gerald is an Honour's Graduate of Shannon College of Hotel Management in Ireland and was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business Administration in Hospitality Management by the Johnson & Wales University, State of Rhode Island in the U.S.A. He is a member of the Executive Committee of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and a Fellow member of the Institute of Hospitality (formerly HCIMA). In addition, Gerald is a Member of the Board of Directors of DIFX, Member of the Board of Directors of Tatweer, Member of the Dubai Holding Executive Committee and Member of the Board of ENDP. Gerald also serves as the Chairman of the Board of Governors of The Emirates Academy.