The Taj Cape Town and its people

The Taj Cape Town is not just about its beautiful and historic Cape Town city centre location, or its internationally renowned five star luxury; it’s also about its people.

We looked long and hard before we filled our various positions and now we’d like to introduce you to a few of the individuals who will make your stay at the Taj Cape Town a truly memorable experience.


Michael Pownall

Michael Pownall is the Taj Cape Town’s General Manager.

Michael’s career has included being General Manager of Cape Town’s legendary Mount Nelson Hotel, General Manager of Keswick Hall, an Orient Express Hotel in Virginia, USA and CEO of the world-renowned Sandy Lane in Barbados.

Michael brings over 25 years of five-star luxury hotel industry experience to the Taj Cape Town. His impeccable attention to detail, excellent management skills and experience make him the perfect person to lead the Taj Cape Town management team.


Justin Arenhold

Justin Arenhold is the Taj Cape Town’s Executive Assistant Manager.

Justin Arenhold began his career at the Cellars-Hohenort in the Constantia Winelands and then filled the role of General Manager at Cybele Forest Lodge in Mpumulanga. Justin then spent a period as General Manager of Ellerman House in Bantry Bay, Cape Town before being appointed as Deputy General Manager at Cape Grace in the V&A Waterfront – a position he filled for three and a half years. Justin was most recently Island Manager and Lodge General Manager at the exclusive North Island Lodge in the Seychelles.

Justin brings his talent and love of luxury guest experiences with him to the Taj Cape Town.


Theo Cromhout

Theo Cromhout is the Director of Sales and Marketing at the Taj Cape Town.

Theo Cromhout has over 18 years experience in both the local and international tourism and hospitality industry.

Theo is a respected member of the South African tourism community and has worked in senior management positions in operations, sales and marketing in the luxury five-star hotel sector both locally and abroad, these include: Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Sun International, Ascott International Management and now Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces.