Dusit Thani Group marked a historic leadership handover on September 12, 2025, as group CEO Suphajee Suthumpun – who has held the role since 2016 – officially transferred her responsibilities to acting chairman of the board Chanin Donavanik before departing to assume her new role as Thailand’s minister of commerce.
In his remarks to the press, Chanin underscored the group’s transformation over the past decade.
“In the past nine years, our managed portfolio has grown from 27 to 297 properties across 18 countries, and our brand portfolio has expanded from four to nine. We’ve chosen to grow differently – through management rather than heavy investment – while channelling capital into Dusit Central Park. Some see accumulated losses, but what they don’t see is that this is the most ambitious project in our history, one that will redefine Dusit Thani,” he said.
Chanin praised Suphajee’s stewardship, adding: “After fulfilling her duty to the country, I hope she returns to Dusit. We are all one family, and I am only keeping the seat warm until she comes back.”
Reflecting on her nine-year tenure, Suphajee said: “Last year was a record for us, surpassing 10 billion baht (US$270 million) in revenue for the first time. We still have some issues with losses, but those will be eradicated once we transfer 16 billion baht worth of residences sold, opening a new chapter for Dusit.”
She then explained why she accepted the cabinet role.
“I never expected to assume a role in politics, but my decision rests on two reasons. First, Thailand faces urgent challenges. Reducing the cost of living alone is not enough; we must also generate income by opening foreign markets, strengthening domestic commerce, and enhancing competitiveness. My experiences in international business with IBM, Thaicom and Dusit have prepared me for this task,” she said.
“Second, this role is short-term – just four months. That means we must act decisively, deliver quick results, and leave a foundation for the next team. Prioritisation of impactful issues will be critical,” she underscored.
Her agenda spans seven focus areas: short-term visible impact, opening foreign markets, strengthening the Thai brand, teamwork across ministries, promoting Thai products to create jobs, embedding sustainability, and supporting tourism as a vital economic engine.
Suphajee was invited to assume the role through a personal call from Thailand’s current prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, who heads a minority government backed by the People’s Party.
As part of the coalition deal, he pledged to dissolve the House of Representatives within four months, with a general election expected in early 2026.
