Mr Cauchi, who was a director of the MTA, takes over from Chris Grech who was last week appointed the authority’s chairman.

He started his career in the tourist sector in 1981. In 1986 he was appointed Front Office Manager of the Selmun Palace Hotel and in 1992 he joined the Corinthia Group of Companies as Deputy General Manager.

He was General Manager of the Mistra Village Club Hotel, Area General Manager of the Group, Regional General Manager responsible for all five properties of the group and of the properties in Tunisia and Portugal. Three years ago he moved to Portugal as Regional Manager for Operations and Development in Spain and Portugal.

In September 2003 Mr Cauchi joined the international group Starwood as General Manager of the Westin Dragonara Resort Malta