New general manager takes office at Polana Serena Hotel

"I was given the chance to help create a winning team within a company that is respected in Portugal by its standard of service and high quality of all the units. Part of this was the development and continued management of the group's flagship Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa," says Afonso dos Santos.

"It is a great honour for me to be associated with the esteemed Serena Group. Branching out into Africa is an exciting step in my career and I look forward to growing with the Polana team as we take this extraordinary hotel with such rich history into a new era of hospitality and service. The Polana's classic image speaks volumes and I am eager to continue its legacy," he adds.

Within his 20 year career, Afonso dos Santos has been involved in the management of many of Portugal's top hotels including the Four Seasons' Ritz Lisbon, Lapa Palace Orient Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises, Real Palacio Hotel, Real Parque Hotel, and Real Residencia Suite Hotel as well as Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa.