Manikis, a 27-year veteran of holiday timeshare firm RCI, becomes president and managing director for the EMEA market.

Wyndham expanded in the EMEA territory with a number of openings last year, bringing the total number of hotels across the region to nearly 470.

Manikis’s appointment follows in the wake of Wyndham Worldwide Corporation announcing the sale for $1.3 billion of its European holiday rental arm, which features brands such as Hoseasons, James Villa Holidays and Novasol.

Wyndham Hotel Group chief operating officer Bob Loewen said: “The EMEA region has a diverse hospitality landscape and is witnessing exciting trends such as the emergence of new feeder markets, a younger demographic and fast-paced technology adoption.

“With our focus on providing everyday travellers with a breadth of choice, we have cemented our reputation as the industry leader.

“Dimitris’ wealth of experience in the shared ownership industry and strong relationships with hospitality providers across EMEA make him an ideal professional to lead our operations in this rapidly growing region.”

Manikis added: “I am looking forward to strengthening the operations and footprint of Wyndham Hotel Group in EMEA, a region I have been associated with for nearly three decades. With the robust performance of the industry in several key markets in EMEA last year, the potential for Wyndham Hotel Group to expand its operations further in the region is tremendous."