Nominations

🏨 Experimental Marais, a 5-star hotel with 43 rooms, will open in the Haut Marais district of Paris in March 2025. The hotel is a transformation of a property acquired in October 2024, redesigned by interior architect Tristan Auer, known for his work on Hôtel de Crillon and Hôtel du Louvre. The design features a neo-gothic universe with spectacular volumes, arches, and stained glass. Amenities include a large restaurant, cocktail bar, spa, and pool. The restaurant, Temple & Chapon, will be under the direction of chef Mélanie Serre.

🍴 Mylo Levin is appointed as the Executive Chef at Le Burgundy Paris, managing the Michelin-starred Baudelaire restaurant and The Charles bar/lounge. His culinary journey began at Ferrandi school in Paris, with pivotal experience at La Méditerranée, Le Jamin, and notably at Le Meurice in 2013. Levin brings a generous, authentic culinary vision, grounded in product respect and controlled creativity, developed under Mentor Chef Christophe Saintagne's guidance.

🏦 Stéphan Vigerie, with experience at prestigious hotels like Crillon and Shangri-La Paris, joined COMO Hotels & Resorts as the new Sales Director for France, following the seasonal reopening of COMO Le Montrachet in Burgundy in 2023—the group's first French property. Vigerie's role is key to supporting the establishment and aligns with COMO's passion for Europe. COMO, headquartered in Singapore, offers luxury travel experiences through its hotels and resorts, emphasizing personalized service, wellness, and award-winning cuisine.

🏨 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.