Under his guidance, the brand expanded significantly, growing from just eight hotels to 26 open properties, with over 30 more in the pipeline. This expansion included iconic destinations such as Bhutan, the Caribbean, and urban markets, helping to position Six Senses as a global leader in wellness and sustainable luxury hospitality.
Neil Jacobs was instrumental in Six Senses’ acquisition by IHG Hotels & Resorts in 2019, valued at $300 million. This acquisition allowed Six Senses to leverage IHG’s global distribution network and operational capabilities, facilitating the brand’s growth and its entry into new markets. Neil Jacobs played a crucial role in steering the brand towards a more diverse portfolio, which now includes wellness-led clubs, residential developments, and projects deeply rooted in sustainability.
Throughout his tenure, Neil Jacobs championed the integration of regenerative principles into the brand’s operations, such as local food sourcing, plastic-free practices, and biophilic design. Under his leadership, Six Senses also introduced innovative concepts like the social wellness club, Six Senses Place, which is set to open in London later this year.
In a LinkedIn post, Neil Jacobs expressed his gratitude for the achievements during his tenure at Six Senses and hinted at his future plans.
“Some might assume stepping down means slowing down or retiring. That road is not for me. I’ll soon be announcing a new venture, one that feels like a return to my own wild origins. A chance to explore fresh ideas, challenge assumptions, and collaborate with kindred spirits who believe, as I do, that hospitality can be a force for good,” – Neil Jacobs
Neil Jacobs’ leadership has left a significant mark on Six Senses, contributing to the brand’s current portfolio of 27 hotels and resorts, with 38 additional properties in the development pipeline.
Concerning his new chapter, Neil Jacobs, has launched Wild Origins, a consultancy focused on sustainable and purpose-driven projects across hospitality, wellness, and land development. Offering services such as strategic advisory, brand development, sustainability planning, and pre-opening strategy, Wild Origins partners with visionary brands to drive responsible growth. Jacobs also joins Capella Hotels and Resorts as Senior Strategic Advisor and advises Desa Potato Head Family on their long-term strategy. Wild Origins aims to create meaningful, impactful projects with a focus on sustainability and purpose.