TravTalk India Online Magazine
Minor Hotels has appointed Christoph Dueker as Cluster General Manager for Anantara Kalutara Resort and Avani Kalutara Resort, effective September 2025. Bringing over two decades of international hospitality experience, Christoph will oversee operations at the two sister properties located along Sri Lanka’s scenic southwest coast.
With more than 20 years of global experience, Christoph has worked with some of the world’s leading luxury and lifestyle hotel brands across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Having begun his career with Four Seasons, he has since held senior management positions with Park Hyatt, Shangri-La, and Marina Bay Sands, among others.
His leadership combines strong commercial acumen with a genuine passion for people and place, creating hotels that are both high-performing and deeply rooted in their local communities. His focus on guest-centric innovation, destination-inspired design, and meaningful community engagement has consistently translated into elevated experiences and sustainable performance.
Commenting on his appointment, Christoph Dueker said,
“I’m truly excited to be in Sri Lanka and to work with the talented teams at Anantara and Avani Kalutara. Both resorts have distinctive personalities: one a peaceful Sir Geoffrey Bawa–inspired luxury sanctuary, the other a vibrant lifestyle beach escape. My focus will be on strengthening their individual character while deepening their connection to this beautiful destination.”
Nicholas Smith, Vice President Operations – Asia, Minor Hotels, added,
“We are delighted to welcome Christoph to this pivotal leadership role in Sri Lanka. His global experience and commitment to thoughtful innovation will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the distinct positioning of our resorts. With a sharpened focus on destination awareness and sustainability, Christoph is well-placed to lead the next phase of growth for our properties in Kalutara.”
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Kalu River, Anantara Kalutara Resort offers a serene sanctuary where contemporary luxury meets Sri Lanka’s coastal charm, blending the architectural vision of Geoffrey Bawa with heartfelt hospitality. Next door, Avani Kalutara Resort invites guests to embrace a vibrant island spirit with laid-back elegance and refreshing experiences for families and leisure travellers alike.
Together, the two resorts form a distinctive riverside and oceanfront haven on the island’s southwest coast — uniting Anantara’s refined sophistication with Avani’s upbeat energy under Minor Hotels’ world-renowned ethos of inspired living.
