The Tribune

Atlantis’s owner yesterday said it had appointed a former Kerzner International officer to replace Paul Burke as the Paradise Island -based resort’s top executive.

Brookfield Asset Management said Howard C. Karawan, a 30-year hotel and gaming industry executive, will become Atlantis’s president and managing director with effect from September 19, 2016.

Mr Karawan was previously president and chief marketing officer for Kerzner International, the former owner and operator of Atlantis.

During his time at Kerzner International, he was part of the leadership team that developed and managed Atlantis, while also spearheading the creation and launch of the One&Only brand.

He then served as chief operating officer and chief restructuring officer for Fontainebleau Resorts, where he was responsible for all aspects of the luxury resort including financial, operations, marketing, and the launch of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.

“Atlantis, the Bahamas and the Bahamian people hold a special place in my heart,” said Mr Karawan.

“It is a privilege to be able to come back to this one-of-a-kind resort and work with the team of dedicated Atlantis employees committed to delivering a guest experience unlike any other, and continuing to evolve Atlantis, which attracts holiday travelers from around the globe.”

In his new role, Mr Karawan will lead Atlantis’ business development, and the property’s strategic direction and growth. He will also oversee the leadership and integration of the guest and employee experience, while managing the resort’s day-to-day operations.

“We thank Paul for his commitment over the past five years, and are pleased he will help to transition Howard into his new role,” said Andrea Balkan, Brookfield’s managing partner.

“We are delighted to welcome Howard back to the Atlantis team, and are confident he and the team will continue making Atlantis a leading world-class destination. With Howard’s knowledge and understanding of the business, it will build on our growth and strategic vision for the future.”

Mr Burke added: “It has been my pleasure working at Atlantis for the past few years, and I will truly miss all my team members and the Bahamas. I am grateful for my time here and wish the best for the resort in the future.”

Mr Karawan holds an MBA from the State University of New York, with a concentration in marketing and finance, and an undergraduate degree in hospitality management from Florida International University.