Michael Jones
Chief Operations Officer
Michael Jones is a highly experienced CEO and board director with expertise across a diverse range of sectors including accommodation, hospitality, tourism, and gaming.
Over the course of his career, Michael has built himself a reputation for growing businesses to their full potential. His strategy and innovation mindset, and skilful stakeholder management, teamed with his ability to empower and motivate the people around him have seen him at the helm of some of Queensland’s most celebrated business success stories.
Most recently Michael was CEO of The Ville Resort-Casino and Ardo, a collection of highend properties in tropical North Queensland owned by Morris Group – the hospitality and tourism offering from Chris Morris, founder of ASX Top-50 global company Computershare.
After being appointed The Ville’s CEO in 2017, Michael spearheaded the property’s visionary $45 million redevelopment which has been credited with putting Townsville on the map as a premium destination for leisure, conferencing, weddings, gaming and tourism.
Since then he has delivered record year-on year profitability despite operating in an often complex and highly regulated environment, and has grown the workforce from 350 staff to over 1,100.
Perhaps one of his finest achievements was overseeing the $100 million construction of Ardo, Townsville’s first luxury hotel which ushered in a new era for tourism in the Townsville region.
Michael was the driving force behind the project, influencing everything from the initial concept, to developing the business strategy, property design, workforce planning, through to its gala opening in December 2023. Since its opening, Michael has steered Ardo to steady and consistent growth, continuing the legacy of success started with The Ville under his leadership.
Through his work at The Ville, Michael has become strongly embedded in the Townsville community and earned the deepest respect amongst his business leader peers. He serves as a Director on the boards of Townsville Enterprise Limited and Ronald McDonald House Charities – Northern Australia. He was the Chair of the AFL Queensland Townsville Advisory Board and Chairs the Townsville Enterprise’s Tourism and Events Committee.
Prior to his time in Townsville, Michael worked at senior leadership roles at Lasseters Hotel Casino and Alice Springs Convention Centre and was General Manager of Mackay’s Harrup Park Country Club which was awarded Best Club in Queensland and Best Multi Sports Club under his leadership.