Under the lead of chief executive José Silva, Ellis will “develop new restaurant concepts, attract and up-skill culinary talent, and enhance (Jumeirah’s) existing restaurants to industry-leading levels.”

The decision forms part of Silva’s strategy to ‘refresh and elevate’ the company’s restaurant offerings throughout its portfolio and hopes to “put dining as a core pillar of the Jumeirah experience, and its strongest market differentiator.”

Silva commented: Silva commented: “Michael and I share a deep passion for food and dining experiences. He is a renowned epicure with 40 years’ experience, and a champion of food innovators, chef talent and culinary excellence.

“He has spent his lifetime championing extraordinary food with absolute dedication and has been responsible for introducing dining and food experiences to new audiences across the globe.

“Michael has a relentless commitment to quality and with a chef’s heart is a true gastronomic encyclopedia. His knowledge and experience of restaurants, cuisine and chef talent is unparalleled, and as an observer of the world of dining, Michael brings to Jumeirah a depth of understanding for culinary that cannot be surpassed.

“It is an honour to welcome him to lead the culinary team.” 


Ellis added: “José has a bold and exciting vision to energise the hospitality industry.

“The kitchen is where revolutions happen and as a creative culinary thinker, I am delighted to have an opportunity to test my own, and the team’s, drive for culinary innovation.

“Jumeirah is synonymous with Dubai - a city that has made the impossible possible, which led the world in many firsts, and I am excited by this zealous can-do spirit.

“I have dedicated much of my life to the culinary experience and as José takes Jumeirah’s hotels into the next phase of dynamic growth, I am looking forward to bringing my passion for great food and dining to Jumeirah’s guests.”