Barnes joined Rotana as CEO in 2024. Rotana manages a portfolio of over 100 properties throughout the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Türkiye. In April 2026, Rotana opened Edge Riyadh Al Rabie, the first of seven hotels under its partnership with Memar Development. In June 2026, the group confirmed a pipeline of 23 hotels in Saudi Arabia by 2027. In June 2026, Rotana signed Gudauri Ski Resort in Georgia's Greater Caucasus mountains, the group's first-ever ski property. Barnes previously held roles at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts for 25 years.