Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa has appointed Fiona Winger as General Manager, bringing an experienced luxury hospitality leader back to Queenstown after an international career spanning more than 15 years. In her new role, Winger will oversee the operations of the luxury hotel while leading its strategic growth and guest experience initiatives.
Her appointment reinforces Sofitel’s commitment to strengthening leadership across its luxury portfolio. Having held senior positions with several internationally recognised hospitality brands across New Zealand, Fiji, the Maldives and Australia, Winger brings extensive operational and commercial expertise to the property.
To Lead Operations and Elevate the Guest Experience
As General Manager, Winger will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa’s operations, including guest experience, financial performance, team leadership and business strategy.
She will work closely with the hotel’s leadership team to maintain operational excellence while enhancing service standards and strengthening the property’s position within Queenstown’s luxury hospitality market. Her responsibilities will also include supporting commercial growth, employee development and the continued delivery of Sofitel’s signature French-inspired hospitality.
Located on Duke Street in the heart of Queenstown, the hotel combines contemporary luxury with French elegance, offering guests convenient access to the region’s renowned alpine landscapes, adventure tourism and lifestyle experiences.
Brings More Than 15 Years of Global Luxury Hospitality Experience
Winger returns to Queenstown following an accomplished career across New Zealand, Fiji, the Maldives and Australia, where she held leadership positions with several leading international hospitality companies.
Most recently, she served as General Manager of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, where she oversaw hotel operations, financial performance, team development and capital projects. During her tenure, she led strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing operational performance while maintaining the property’s luxury guest experience.
Prior to joining Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, Winger built her career with globally recognised hospitality brands, including Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses, Marriott International, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, and Westin Hotels & Resorts. Across these roles, she gained extensive experience in luxury resort operations, commercial leadership, team management and guest engagement.
Her international career has provided broad expertise in managing luxury hotels across diverse markets, supporting both operational excellence and long-term business performance.
Winger is also an alumna of the International College of Hotel Management, further strengthening her foundation in hospitality leadership.
Strengthening Leadership at Sofitel Queenstown
Winger’s extensive background in luxury hospitality positions her to lead Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa through its next phase of growth. Her experience managing high-end hotels and resorts across multiple international destinations brings valuable insight into guest expectations, operational management and commercial performance.
With expertise spanning hotel operations, financial management, team development and strategic planning, she is well placed to further enhance the property’s reputation as one of Queenstown’s leading luxury hotels.
Supporting the Hotel’s Continued Growth
The appointment of Fiona Winger reflects Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa’s continued investment in experienced leadership as it strengthens its position in New Zealand’s luxury hospitality market. Her international experience and proven track record across globally recognised hotel brands will support the hotel’s ongoing focus on exceptional guest experiences, operational excellence and sustainable business growth.
