Global hospitality group Minor Hotels has appointed Judd Rabbidge as General Manager of Avani Singapore Hotel, marking the brand’s first property in Singapore ahead of its planned opening in Q2 2027.

Rabbidge moves into the role from Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, where he has served as General Manager since joining Minor Hotels in July 2024. The appointment brings a leader from within the company to guide the Singapore launch, combining pre-opening expertise with experience in resort operations, commercial strategy and lifestyle hospitality.

In his new post, Rabbidge will manage the pre-opening and official launch of the hotel. His duties encompass staff recruitment and training, operational readiness, commercial strategy and guest experience. He will work alongside Minor Hotels’ regional and corporate teams to establish the property’s market positioning and deliver Avani’s focus on smart design, upbeat service and good value.

An Australian national, Rabbidge holds a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Hospitality, Tourism and Business Management from the Pacific International Hotel Management School in New Plymouth, New Zealand. He possesses over two decades of global hospitality experience across Australia, the Maldives, Indonesia, Fiji and Europe.

Prior to joining Minor Hotels, Rabbidge worked as Hotel Manager at W Sydney, where he directed the pre-opening phase and launch of the 588-room site, the largest W Hotel globally. Between 2018 and 2022, he was Director of Sales and Marketing at W Bali – Seminyak. His background also features operational leadership positions at other Marriott locations in the region alongside senior management roles at Mantra Group.

Rabbidge said: “Having led Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, I am excited to take on a new challenge with the brand in Singapore. My priority is to build a strong team and create a hotel experience that reflects both Avani’s personality and the character of the city. Singapore is a competitive hospitality market, and we have an opportunity to offer a fresh perspective through thoughtful design, genuine service and a strong connection to the destination.”