KSL Capital Partners, the owner of Australian-founded Baillie Lodges, has taken a majority interest in Soneva Group – the sustainability-driven luxury hospitality brand operating five-star resorts in the Maldives.
The latest transaction — through an affiliate — builds on KSL Capital Partners’ minority investment with Sonevea Group initated in November 2019.
KSL Capital Partner threw its weight behind Baillie Lodges’ Founders, James and Hayley Baillie, in late 2018. KSL’s investment stream has since seen Baillie Lodges expand its stable beyond Southern Ocean Lodge, Longitude 131 and Capella Lodge in Australia to Canada (Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge), New Zealand (Huka Lodge) and to South America (Tierra Resorts in Chile).
Properties within the Maldives-based luxury resort operator’s portfolio include Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani, Soneva Secret and the Soneva in Aqua yacht. Soneva is a pioneer for responsible tourism, combining sustainability with exquisite hospitality and intuitive, personalised service.
The company says the expanded interest in Soveva “underscores KSL’s continued conviction in Soneva’s long-term strategy and differentiated approach to ultra-luxury experiential travel.”
New CEO for Soneva
Neil Gallagher has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Soneva, to steer the next phase of investment.
“A seasoned international hospitality leader, Mr. Gallagher brings more than two decades of experience across Europe, the Middle East, the U.S. and the Caribbean,” KSL said.
Gallagher previously served as CEO and CFO of Clermont Hotel Group and has held leadership roles at IHG Hotels & Resorts, including CFO, Europe. Earlier in his career, Gallagher held leadership positions at Marriott Vacation Club International.
