Coco Collection, the Maldivian-owned hospitality brand behind Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, has welcomed two key leaders who have recently joined the organisation.  Known for its heartfelt service, authentic island experiences, and keen sense of place, Coco Collection continues to build on its foundations as it enters an exciting new phase of growth this year.

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Mr. John G. Laing joined Coco Collection as Chief Operating Officer in October 2025, while Ms. Yvonne Mak assumed the role of Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing in December 2025.

Their appointments reflect Coco Collection’s continued focus on thoughtful growth, strong guest service, sustainability, and closer collaboration between commercial and operational teams.

As Chief Operating Officer, John Laing has overall fiscal and operational responsibility for Coco Collection’s two existing resorts, as well as the projected opening of the company’s newest luxury resort, Coco Fehi Rah, in 2026.

Based in Malé, John works closely with on-island teams to ensure consistent service standards, operational efficiency, and a guest experience that remains true to Coco Collection’s core values.

John brings with him more than two decades of international hospitality leadership experience. Prior to joining Coco Collection, he served as General Manager of The Legian Seminyak, Bali, overseeing one of Indonesia’s most respected luxury hotel and villa complexes. Earlier in his career, he spent 15 years with Urban Resort Concepts and The Anthology Group, where he held the role of Chief Operating Officer and Chief Customer Officer, overseeing a portfolio of luxury hotels across China, Malaysia, and Southeast Asia. Originally from Scotland, John has also worked across the UK, the US, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

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Throughout his career, John has been recognised for his hands-on leadership style, his ability to balance operational discipline with guest-centric thinking, and his experience working closely with ownership and stakeholders. At Coco Collection, his focus is on strengthening day-to-day operations, supporting teams on the ground, and ensuring that commercial ambitions are delivered through strong, sustainable operations.

Joining him is Yvonne Mak, who brings over 35 years of international experience in luxury hospitality sales, marketing, and brand leadership. As Senior Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Yvonne leads the group’s commercial strategy, overseeing brand positioning, revenue performance, distribution, and partnerships across all markets.

Yvonne’s career spans senior roles with globally recognised brands including Urban Resort Concepts, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Radisson Hotel Group. She has played a key role in the successful opening and repositioning of several award-winning luxury hotels and is known for building high-performing commercial teams and strong stakeholder relationships.

At Coco Collection, Yvonne works closely with operations to ensure closer alignment between guest experience and commercial strategy. Her approach is grounded in understanding guest needs, strengthening brand storytelling, and ensuring that sustainability, authenticity, and service excellence remain central to all sales and marketing efforts.

These appointments reinforce the leadership team as the group looks ahead with renewed confidence and purpose. John and Yvonne’s combined experiences support a shared goal, which is “delivering meaningful guest experiences while ensuring long-term commercial and environmental sustainability.”

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Stay connected and discover more about Coco Collection by visiting www.cococollection.com.