Orient-Express Hotels has announced the appointment of Ali Kasikci as regional managing director for North America, Mexico and the Caribbean, with effect from 30 January 2012.

Kasikci's responsibilities will include managing the renovation and reopening of El Encanto - a 92-bedroom hotel in Santa Barbara, California, US, which is due to open late next year.

The hotel will be Orient-Express' first on the US' West Coast and will comprise a six-room boutique spa; an infinity-edge swimming pool; tennis courts; and a fine dining restaurant.

Meanwhile, Kasikci will also oversee the operation of Orient Express' six existing sites in the region, including the Maroma Resort and Spa in Mexico and Keswick Hall, Virginia, US.

Orient Express chief operating officer Filip Boyen said: "We are very excited about the contribution Ali can make to the future development of Orient-Express."