Wong Kar Ling drives the development of The Ascott Limited (Ascott)’s global strategy, charting strategic growth and accelerating expansion through mergers and acquisitions, transformation, and partnerships.

In 2022, Kar Ling led the acquisition of Oakwood Worldwide, fast-tracking Ascott’s growth with Oakwood becoming one of its fastest growing global brands today. Kar Ling also oversaw the 2023 acquisition of the New Zealand master-franchise for Quest Apartment Hotels.

In addition, Kar Ling drives the capital recycling of Ascott’s assets and oversees the development of new markets, capabilities, and products. In her dual-role as Managing Director, Southeast Asia, she leads the region’s business, operations, and growth.

Prior to joining Ascott, Kar Ling was Chief Financial Officer at Sheares Healthcare Group where she also played an active role in investments and asset management. Kar Ling’s foray into hospitality started with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where in her last role as Chief Financial Officer, she oversaw strategic planning, reporting, compliance, tax, financial IT systems and operations in Asia Pacific. She later led the integration efforts between Starwood and Marriott International in 2016, before expanding to oversee the combined portfolio in Asia Pacific excluding China as Senior Vice President of Finance at Marriott.

A seasoned leader with over 25 years of hospitality experience, Kar Ling’s professional expertise lies in strategic planning and investments, corporate finance, financial management and operations.