Brendan McCormack

Vice President of Marketing, The First Group

Brendan joined The First Group in 2020, bringing with him almost 20 years’ experience developing cutting-edge F&B concepts for some of the world’s most-respected hotel operators.

An Irish native, Brendan commenced his career at the luxurious Dromoland Castle in County Clare, before seeking out sunnier climes in Dubai. During his initial stint in the emirate, he developed a reputation as one of the F&B industry’s trailblazers, helping establish the likes of Barasti, Nasimi Beach and Yalumba among the city’s most popular entertainment venues and dining destinations.

In 2013, he was appointed Director of F&B at the famous W Hong Kong. Under his guidance, the hotel’s F&B portfolio was overhauled, with the addition of exciting new concepts and dining initiatives delivering a 20% increase in F&B revenues in the first 18 months of his management.

Returning to Dubai, Brendan helped steer the launch of W Dubai – The Palm, where he earned multiple awards as Hotel Manager from 2018 to 2020.

With his extensive experience and deep understanding of Dubai’s dynamic and highly competitive F&B landscape, Brendan is uniquely and ideally positioned to spearhead The First Group Hospitality’s marketing efforts.