Adam Stewart has become the second chairman in the 40-year history of Sandals Resorts International, succeeding his father, hotel mogul Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart ,who died on January 4.

In a statement, Sandals said the younger Stewart has been appointed executive chairman of the company founded by his father, who had served as its chairman until his death.

Stewart assumes the role after working by his father’s side for more than two decades, serving as chief executive officer before taken on his previously most recent role of deputy chairman.

“He has helped oversee the continued rapid expansion of Sandals Resorts International throughout the Caribbean, including the recent announcement of two new island resort destinations, the future Sandals Curaçao and Beaches Resorts in St. Vincent,” the company said in its statement today (January 19).

“Countless organisations have recognised Adam Stewart for his leadership in the travel industry and his substantial contributions to the destinations where Sandals Resorts International operates,” Sandals continued.

“As part of this commitment, in 2009, Adam Stewart launched the Sandals Foundation with a mission to lift communities through education, healthcare, and environmental protection. The foundation and its activities have helped millions across the region through various impact-focused programmes, where he will continue to serve as president.”

Adam Stewart has also been recognised as a strong proponent of the direct investment and development of team members. His work through the Sandals Corporate University brings continued learning, mentorship and invaluable skills training to thousands of employees throughout the Caribbean. In 2016, Stewart was also bestowed the national honour of being awarded membership in the Order of Distinction, Commander Class by the Jamaican Government for his outstanding contribution to tourism.

“Stewart has also played an integral role in managing the company’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including launching its creation of the respected Sandals Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness to ensure guests’ and team members’ safety, and consulting with industry groups, government entities, health organizations and international associations alike,” Sandals said.

“His work guaranteed Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts are at the forefront of providing a safe and enjoyable destination for international travelers during this time and is keeping thousands of team members across all its Caribbean destinations employed.”

Said Stewart on his appointment: “My father’s shoes are impossible to fill, but we will follow in his ground-breaking footsteps to continue the important work we all set out to do together.”

He added: “As a company and as a team, we are poised for the future. We are already leading the industry in recovering from the greatest setback in the history of travel. We will continue to lead not just by saying, but by doing. And at the heart of it all, we are solely focused on what we do best: delighting our guests.”

READ: Bartlett hails Adam Stewart on being appointed to lead Sandals