By V. Sivaji

In the ever evolving hospitality industry in Penang, hotelier Ms Catherine Ooi has taken on a new leadership role as Director of Sales and Marketing at Amari SPICE Penang, marking another significant milestone in her career.

With extensive experience spanning several established hospitality brands, Ooi brings with her a wealth of knowledge in hotel sales, marketing, revenue generation and commercial development. 

Her appointment comes at a time when Penang continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for business travel, leisure tourism and meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE).

Ooi’s professional journey is a testament to perseverance, dedication and a strong commitment to the hospitality industry. Starting her career in a frontline position, she steadily worked her way up through the ranks, gaining valuable experience and developing the leadership capabilities needed to take on increasingly senior responsibilities.

Over the years, she has been associated with several prominent hotel names, including Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort, St Giles Wembley Hotel and the Hilton group. She subsequently served at The Granite Luxury Hotel in George Town before moving to Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah, where she held the position of Director of Sales and Marketing.

In October 2025, Ooi returned to Penang to take on an executive leadership position with Iconic Group, overseeing three properties: Iconic Marjorie Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott; Iconic Hotel Penang in Bukit Mertajam and Iconic Regency Service Residences.

Her career progression reflects her ability to adapt to different hospitality environments while building on her experience in sales, marketing, business development and team leadership.

Known for her collaborative approach, Ooi believes in encouraging team members to contribute ideas and work together towards common business objectives. This emphasis on teamwork and shared responsibility has been an important part of her leadership journey.

In her new role at Amari SPICE Penang, she will be well placed to draw on her industry experience to support the hotel’s commercial objectives, strengthen market positioning and cultivate relationships with corporate clients, travel partners and event organisers.

Strategically located in Bayan Lepas and directly connected to the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Amari SPICE Penang is an important player in the island’s business hospitality and MICE landscape. The hotel offers 453 rooms and suites and caters to both corporate and leisure travellers.

As Penang’s hospitality sector becomes increasingly competitive, effective commercial leadership will remain essential in identifying new market opportunities, building customer relationships and delivering sustainable business growth.

Ooi’s latest appointment marks another chapter in a career built on determination, experience and a passion for hospitality.

Penang Hyperlocal congratulates Catherine Ooi on her new appointment and wishes her every success in her new role at Amari SPICE Penang.