Nominations

🏨 Stéphan Vigerie, with years of experience at prestigious French hotels like Crillon, Royal Monceau Raffles Paris, and Shangri-La Paris, recently joined COMO Hotels & Resorts. Following the seasonal reopening of COMO Le Montrachet in Burgundy in 2023, the first French property of the group, his appointment aims to support this strategic move and COMO's passion for Europe.

🏡 Gruppo Statuto, after acquiring the property in 1940 and transforming it over the years, made it a luxury hotel by 1995 with 49 rooms, six suites, a restaurant, a pool, and a spa. Sources mention Grupo Statuto aiming to entrust management to Four Seasons (a Tavola, 29/01/2025). They own luxury establishments like Mandarin Oriental Paris, Six Senses Rome and London, Danieli Venice, and plan for Mandarin Oriental in Arzachena by 2026, plus Milan's Four Seasons and the upcoming Rosewood Milan (2025) and Six Senses Milan.

🏡 Hélène Lang-Lauper, employed since 2019, has been dismissed from her position at Hôtel Métropole and Restaurant du parc des Eaux-Vives by Independent Hospitality Associates (IHA), which has been managing the property since the City of Geneva replaced Swissôtel in 2016 with an initially intended 18-month interim period. The hotel industry in Geneva reflects a struggling Swiss tourism market, with the last Geneva Motor Show held in 2024 and other events facing challenges. No official statement has been made by the City of Geneva regarding the current situation.

🏠 Jack Penrod, founder and visionary behind Nikki Beach, a globally recognized brand, left an enduring legacy in hospitality. Nikki Beach, celebrated for its distinctive experience, has expanded worldwide. Penrod was not just an entrepreneur but an inspirational mentor. His recent passing prompted heartfelt tributes from the Nikki Beach family, acknowledging his profound impact. An homage to Penrod's life and achievements will take place in the upcoming weeks.

🔖 Auberge Resorts Collection, upon arriving in Geneva, assigned Marc Raffray to oversee transition as the new Director of Hotel Woodward. Raffray and Auberge CEO Christian Clerc, both with history at Four Seasons, reunite for this venture. Meanwhile, the iconic Byblos in Saint-Tropez sees Christophe Chauvin depart for a new Moroccan adventure, with upcoming announcements expected for Franka Holtmann's successor at Hotel Meurice and the new General Manager at Byblos.

🏠 Claudia Kozma Kaplan appointed Chief Brand Officer for Raffles and Fairmont hotels, bringing vast experience from luxury fashion and hospitality. Previously worked with Christian Dior, Gucci, and The Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Tasked with overseeing Raffles' global network of 23 hotels, including upcoming openings: Raffles London at The OWO, Raffles Boston, and Raffles Jaipur. Successfully led the "The Butler Did It" campaign, enhancing Raffles' global presence. Now focusing on guiding the future direction of Fairmont brand to resonate with a global audience.

🏦 Tobias Reinecke promoted to Head of Development, Investments, and Portfolio Growth at Choice Hotels EMEA. Part of the company since September 2022, his focus is on expanding the portfolio and securing large-scale investment deals. Leadership team includes David Beers (CEO), Mayella Ruijven (CFO), Dylan McCarthy (Senior Legal Counsel), Corina Breban (HR Director), Cédric Bartolini (Commercial Director), and Marielle Vroemen (Operations Director). The team aims to grow the portfolio and brand presence in the EMEA region by 2025, enhancing stakeholder value.

🏨 Arnaud Lemonnier, with over 30 years of experience, is the current Franchise Development Director at B&B HOTELS, a Breton hospitality group. The company has a notable history of innovation while upholding regional values. The group is currently offering 103 job opportunities.

🏨 Tobias Reinecke was promoted to Head of Development, Investments, and Portfolio Growth at Choice Hotels EMEA. Working with the company since September 2022, he was previously in charge of Investments and Strategic Partnerships. Reinecke aims to lead the growth strategy and develop valuable investment agreements, focusing on portfolios, partnerships, and franchises for sustainable profit growth within the EMEA region. The executive team includes CEO David Beers and other seasoned professionals committed to Choice Hotels EMEA's strategy.

🏨 Factory specializes in tertiary space layout, focusing on user experience and business transformation, offering skills for the hotel sector to create unique experiences through interior architecture, design, renovation, and branding. Dominique Barlaud, with a background in interior architecture and hotel management, led Tétris' Hotel Department, overseeing projects like Le Méridien, Carlton, and Martinez in Cannes, and now enhances Factory's growth in the hotel market, blending professional and artistic passions, including the "Money for Nothing" charitable art project with 1001 artists.