Simon Leigh, Managing Director at Premier Inn Middle East - a joint venture between The Emirates Group and Whitbread Plc - is a seasoned hotel professional with more than 25 years’ experience in hospitality, procurement and supply chain management through leadership roles in the UK, USA, Europe and Asia. He also serves in various board member roles at Premier Inn Middle East and Whitbread Plc.

Before Simon joined Premier Inn Middle East in 2021, he was Group Procurement & Supply Chain Director across all brands at Whitbread Plc. Previously, he held procurement and supply chain leadership roles throughout multiple industry sectors including retail, construction and energy.

Simon has brought a wealth of experience and knowhow to Premier Inn Middle East. He is leading the company’s contribution to the continued growth and success of the country’s tourism sector, and, with more properties planned, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to further expansion in the wider region.

Simon is widely recognised as a highly respected figurehead and spokesman for the industry, and regarded as an effective, approachable leader by the company’s team members. Under his leadership, a wide range of company initiatives have been introduced, including Force For Good, Whitbread’s sustainability programme, One Team One Heartbeat, Premier Inn’s culture, wellbeing and developments programme and The Moon and Stars Awards, Premier Inn’s internal awards scheme.