Nominations

🏠 Ari Kastrati was appointed as Chief Content, Hospitality, and Development Officer at MGM Resorts, reporting directly to CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle and joining the Executive Committee. Kastrati, who joined MGM Resorts in 2010 and recently served as Director of Hospitality, will oversee global design and development efforts, entertainment and sports partnerships, and continue to lead the hotel strategy, including dining and nightlife concept development. He brings a key role in MGM's rise as a global entertainment leader.

🦠 Phishing targets online users, prompting them to disclose sensitive information. An example given is a deceptive email from "[email protected]" posing as OVH, requesting €7.99 for domain renewal within two days. In France, 60% of companies experienced cyberattacks, with the average cost per incident at €176,000. 42% of hotels have encountered phishing attempts. Vigilance and education on cybersecurity are paramount for protection.

🏨 Billy Skelli-Cohen was appointed as General Manager of Beaumier, a dynamic European hotel group, effective January 1, 2025. Skelli-Cohen, renowned in the luxury hotel and international hotel development industry, previously led Zien Group and founded Lore Group. Beaumier, known for properties with local culture and sustainability, evolved from Les Hôtels d'en Haut in 2021 and is set for further expansion.

🍕 Yum! Brands, the parent company of Pizza Hut, is taking over the management of Pizza Hut's 129 restaurants and 57 franchises in France, previously handled by AmRest Holdings. Anne Lainé, former McDonald's executive, became General Manager of Pizza Hut France in October 2024 to boost expansion, brand repositioning, and digitization efforts. During her tenure as CMO at McDonald's France from 2019 to 2023, the company achieved a turnover of 6 billion euros in 2022.

📌 Experienced hotelier Timur Sentuerk joins The Doyle Collection as CEO with a focus on growth, enhancing customer experience, team performance, and well-being. Sentuerk aims to drive innovation and expand the brand's market presence. He expresses excitement about building on the company's warm hospitality, exceptional service, and attention to detail, ensuring it remains relevant and exciting for modern consumers while retaining core values.

👨 Karolina Lasinska joined Hotel Sanders at reception just before its first anniversary in 2018, making her one of the hotel's longest-tenured employees. Promoted to head receptionist in 2020 and Operations Director in 2022, she has now been appointed General Manager. CEO of Kolpin Hotels, Karim Nielsen, highlights her deep understanding of Sanders' culture and service excellence. Lasinska expresses pride in leading an exceptional team, emphasizing Sanders as more than a luxury hotel but a place of warmth and authenticity in Copenhagen.

🎓 Pierre Stepan, with a civil engineering degree, started his career in 1991, expanding his skills in construction and roadworks, later specializing in transformation of tertiary spaces. In 2012, he transitioned to public service, holding positions like building technician and Director of Technical Services. After a 12-year tenure, in 2023, Stepan pursued a Master 2 in law focused on public procurement and environmental law. He joins Azureva on October 1, 2024, aiming to enhance client satisfaction and infrastructure.

🏢 Mauricio Patino appointed as Regional Sales Director for Meetings & Incentives at Velas Resorts, bringing over 20 years of hospitality industry experience in sales, marketing, and business development. Cynthia Kunz, Senior Global Sales Director at Velas Resorts, welcomes Mauricio's depth of knowledge and innovative strategies. Fluent in Spanish and English, Mauricio will serve as president of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Florida & Caribbean chapter in 2025. Previously worked with US Virgin Islands Tourism Department, Dolce Hotels & Resorts, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide.

🏨 Frank Santos named new CEO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts after founder Harris Rosen passed away at 85. Santos, with the company for 39 years, previously served as CFO since 1986. Rosen Hotels & Resorts, an independent chain in Southeast U.S., employs over 4,000 staff and operates seven award-winning hotels in Orlando, including Rosen Shingle Creek. Santos committed to continuing Rosen's legacy in the industry and community, including philanthropic efforts like educational programs in Tangelo Park and Parramore, scholarships, and the RosenCare health program for employees.

🏨 Marielle Vroemen, employed at Choice Hotels EMEA since 2023, will join its executive team as Head of Operations on December 1, 2024. Based in Amsterdam, Vroemen studied at Hotelschool La Hague (2004, BS) and Hotelschool Heerlen (2000). Her role involves strategic development, franchise lifecycle management including integration and support, brand management, and enhancing efficiency across the franchise network. David Beers, CEO of Choice Hotels EMEA, praised her for her key role in the region's commercial and operational success.