Beaumier, one of the fastest growing European boutique hotel groups, today announced the appointment of hotel industry veteran Billy Skelli-Cohen as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025.
Originally from France, Mr. Skelli-Cohen is a lifelong hotelier, specialising in high-end hospitality and international hotel development. Most recently, he was Chief Executive Officer of Zien Group, the owner and operator of leading hospitality businesses including the Eden Hotels brand. Prior to Zien, Mr. Skelli-Cohen founded and led Lore Group, which was responsible for creating hotels such as Sea Containers London and repositioning iconic properties including Pulitzer Amsterdam and Riggs Washington DC.
“Beaumier is an incredible collection of properties in exceptional European locations. I am truly honored to join as CEO and help lead a team of passionate and dedicated professionals. In 2021, Les Hôtels d’en Haut became Beaumier which has since developed into a best-in-class brand of hotels dedicated to their unique location and culture with a strong commitment to sustainability and nature preservation. The company is poised to continue its impressive growth in new and exciting destinations, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to lead the company in this exciting next chapter,” said Mr. Skelli-Cohen.
This appointment comes at a time when Beaumier is continuing to strengthen its European position with the forthcoming opening of its first property in Wengen, Switzerland. This marks a significant step for the group, which aspires to offer ever more immersive experiences in exceptional settings.
Beaumier currently owns and operates 11 hotels in France, Spain and Switzerland.
Orient Express announces the appointment of Yannick Alléno, one of the most innovative and prestigious chefs on the international culinary scene, as Executive Chef of the legendary Orient Express Train and the world's largest sailing yacht, Orient Express Corinthian. This collaboration marks a milestone in the history of Orient Express, combining the brand's timeless heritage with the very best of French culinary art.
A renowned signature for unparalleled experiences and emotions
With two three-star Michelin ratings and a resolutely avant-garde career path, Yannick Alléno transformed the prestigious Pavillon Ledoyen into the world's most starred independent gastronomic establishment in 2014. Chef Alléno is world-renowned for his mastery of traditional French techniques combined with a modern and innovative vision of gastronomy. By joining Orient Express, he redefines the culinary experience for travelers, offering them a journey of the senses that celebrates elegance, sophistication and a passion for taste all in the heart of unforgettable destinations.
A culinary journey designed for excellence and escape
Aboard two restaurant cars of the Orient Express Train and on the sailing yacht Orient Express Corinthian, which wil house five restaurants, including La Table de l'Orient Express by Yannick Alléno, Chef Alléno offers an exceptional gastronomic experience, with exclusive menus inspired by the terroirs crossed and the unique landscapes of each journey. Driven by an insatiable quest for creativity and innovation, his cuisine promises to sublimate every moment of the voyage, plunging passengers into a universe of unprecedented flavors, textures and aromas. Yannick Alléno's unique culinary creations, created using the finest techniques and ingredients, will allow passengers to be transported by a universe where excellence and creative audacity know no bounds. Each dish will tell a story, echoing the spirit of travel and escape, while honoring the excellence of Orient Express, where every detail counts.
Fairmont Windsor Park and the Arora Group have announced the appointment of Joanna Barnett as its new General Manager.
With an impressive career spanning three decades in the luxury hospitality industry, Joanna Barnett brings deep expertise and strong leadership to her new role at the countryside property. Barnett joins Fairmont Windsor Park following a 12-year tenure at The Grove, a prestigious country estate and hotel in Hertfordshire. Most recently, she served as Hotel Manager, overseeing the property's operations, group sales, and revenue management, driving significant growth and delivering exceptional guest satisfaction.
Her journey at The Grove began in 2013, during which she progressed through a series of senior leadership roles, including Director of Events and Food & Beverage, and Director of Events. Prior to her career at The Grove, Barnett honed her skills at The Landmark London, where she held key leadership positions, including Events Director and Director of Event Sales, during her 11-year tenure.
She began her journey in hospitality at two of London's most iconic establishments, The Savoy Group and The Berkeley, laying the foundation for her distinguished career in luxury hotels. Barnett's extensive experience in operational excellence, team leadership, and guest satisfaction aligns seamlessly with Fairmont Windsor Park's commitment to providing world-class luxury experiences.
Barnett succeeds Ryan Nicholls, who has served as General Manager since March 2022 and now takes on the role of Project Development Director at the Arora Group, based at the Group's Head Office.
easyHotel, the great value low-carbon hotel brand, has announced its appointment of Anja Bachmann as Head of Development in Germany and the Netherlands, as the Group looks to grow its network of hotels across the Netherlands and expand into new German markets.
This is a newly created role, with Anja using her extensive experience in hospitality to identify strategic acquisitions in primary and secondary cities for owned and leased, and franchise opportunities. While easyHotel already has a strong presence in the Netherlands, with seven locations, Germany is an untapped market with only one hotel in Berlin, offering significant growth potential for the Group. easyHotel also benefits from being part of the easy family of brands, with sister brands including easyJet, who have been flying to Germany for over 20-years. There is huge opportunity for growth, with branded budget hotels currently comprising 25% of the market in Germany compared to 45% in the UK.
Anja joins easyHotel from THE EMBASSIES, a global, intergenerational hospitality network of residences, clubs and public spaces, where she was Vice President, leading strategic growth initiatives and managing project development in Europe. Prior to this, Anja has also worked at MEININGER Hotels and GBI, a real estate project developer in Germany and Austria.
Octant Lousã, announces the appointment of Miguel Silva as Executive Chef of its signature À TERRA restaurant. A native of Coimbra with deep roots in central Portugal’s culinary traditions, Silva brings his expertise to craft a new menu celebrating the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Chef Silva’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for À TERRA, where he will showcase his passionate commitment to local ingredients and regional producers. His new menu features innovative interpretations of traditional dishes, including specialties such as Cod loin “Lugrade” with pea and Portuguese cabbage, and the distinctive rice from the lower Mondego region served with barefoot and roosterfish fillets.
“When crafting the new menu, I drew inspiration from the authentic regional ingredients and aimed to revive those forgotten foods that once formed the pillars of our local cuisine,” says Silva. “It’s a nod to the simple yet versatile culinary traditions that were once the foundation of central Portugal’s gastronomy. My new role at Octant Lousã allows me to showcase and let diners experience the unique, vibrant flavors that make this region’s food so special.”
Silva brings extensive experience from some of Portugal’s most prestigious kitchens, having refined his craft under renowned chefs including Fausto Airoldi at Casino de Lisboa and Luís Baena at Hotel Tivoli Lisboa. His previous leadership roles include positions at Villa Batalha hotel, Lisboa Carmo Hotel, Eurostars Oasis Plaza in Figueira da Foz, and Tivoli Coimbra.
Aligned with Octant Hotels’ commitment to authentic, locally-rooted experiences across its collection of eight boutique properties throughout Portugal – Octant Lousã, classified as a Historical Heritage Building of Public Interest, provides an elegant backdrop for Silva’s culinary vision, offering guests a genuine taste of central Portugal’s rich culinary heritage in a historic setting.
For reservations at À TERRA, please call +351 239 990 800 or email reservations-lousa@octanthotels.com
Grand Metropolitan Hotels is bolstering its Supervisory Board with a distinguished addition. Dr. Philipp Rösler will actively support the management of the international hotel group and play a key role in shaping its global growth strategy. For company founder Martin R. Smura, this appointment marks a pivotal moment in the development of Grand Metropolitan Hotels.
Dr. Philipp Rösler, a former German Federal Minister of Economics and a member of the Board of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Switzerland, brings international expertise and strong connections to the Asian market. His support will be especially instrumental in Vietnam, one of Grand Metropolitan Hotels’ future focus markets.
With Dr. Philipp Rösler’s strategic network, Grand Metropolitan Hotels is well-positioned to sustainably expand its presence in the region. In addition to his role on the Supervisory Board, Rösler will also represent the company externally. This appointment underscores the hotel group’s commitment to further penetrating international markets and solidifying its brand position in the global hospitality industry.
Dr. Philipp Rösler is a German politician and former Vice Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany. A trained medical doctor, he began his political career with the Free Democratic Party (FDP), serving as Federal Minister of Health, Federal Minister of Economics, and Vice Chancellor. As Federal Chairman of the FDP, Rösler played a significant role in shaping the party’s direction, championing economic liberal reforms. After retiring from active politics, Dr. Rösler successfully transitioned into the global business arena, leveraging his extensive contacts in Asia, particularly in Vietnam, to strengthen international relations.
Last September, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris welcomed Thibaut Drege back as General Manager, marking his return to Paris after two years at the helm of Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest.
A graduate of the École Hôtelière de Lausanne, Thibaut Drege has nearly two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry both in France and internationally. His love affair with the George V began in 2018 when he joined the iconic palace as Hotel Manager, marking the beginning of his career with Four Seasons.
Within this legendary Parisian palace, Thibaut Drege quickly earned the respect and admiration of a 600-strong team. Guided by his passion and unwavering dedication to this global icon of hospitality, he infused the Hotel with dynamic energy, devoting nearly five years to crafting unique experiences for guests.
After playing a pivotal role in the Hotel's success in meeting several challenges, including the global health crisis, Thibaut Drege relocated to Budapest in 2022 to assume the role of General Manager at Four Seasons Gresham Palace. In this iconic European setting - an architectural gem along the banks of the Danube - he instilled a renewed energy and guided the property on a path to excellence, before returning to the French capital to the Hotel that holds a special place in his heart.
As General Manager, Thibaut Drege aims to further reinforce the principles that have established the Hotel's international reputation, while infusing his vision, experience, and energy into every initiative. He is also committed to fostering a culture of kindness and empathy in his approach to team management.
B&B Hotels has appointed Katja Jenne as the new Head of Marketing & Communications for Central and Northern Europe, effective November 1, 2024. Jenne succeeds Patrizio Iaquinandi, who is moving on to new professional opportunities.
Katja Jenne has been with B&B Hotels since 2022, previously serving as Team Lead for Brand Marketing, where she gained extensive experience in the company's marketing efforts.
In her new role, Jenne will report directly to Frank Seedorff, Chief Digital Officer, and manage a team of 13 professionals. Her responsibilities will include further developing the brand strategy, overseeing the implementation of marketing campaigns, and coordinating the associated public relations activities to support the company's objectives in the region.
Jenne's appointment reflects her proven track record within B&B Hotels and her ability to contribute to the growth and development of the brand. As the company continues to expand its footprint in the budget hotel sector, her role will be key in delivering strategic marketing initiatives that resonate with the target audience and strengthen the brand's presence in Central and Northern Europe.
VERANÓ Hotels + Resorts proudly announces the appointment of Pierre-Alex Maillard as Area General Manager. Pierre-Alex will lead the team at VERANÓ San Juan, which is the first of three new luxury lifestyle hotels slated for Puerto Rico by VERANÓ.
With a rich heritage in luxury and lifestyle hotels in some of the world’s most celebrated destinations, including St Barths, The Hamptons, and Miami, Pierre-Alex brings twenty years of leadership in delivering exceptional guest experiences and driving operational success. His most recent role as general manager of Hyde Midtown Miami, where he guided the hotel to its No. 1 ranking on TripAdvisor, is part of his repertoire to lead the opening of VERANÓ San Juan. Pierre-Alex brings a deep familiarity with Puerto Rico’s luxury hospitality landscape, having previously held the role of General Manager at Serafina Beach Hotel, now Condado Beach Hotel, where he played a pivotal role in the successful launch of the property. His leadership helped position the hotel as a standout destination in San Juan.
“The high-caliber hotelier that Pierre-Alex brings to VERANÓ is incredibly beneficial to us, the entire hotel team, and importantly – our guests,” said VERANÓ Hotels + Resorts managing director, John Sears. “His talent for luxury hospitality and his commitment to delivering elevated experiences for guests will be instrumental as we introduce VERANÓ San Juan to the world. We’re confident that his leadership will add to the new standard for hospitality in Puerto Rico.”
VERANÓ San Juan features design-forward social venues complimented with luxurious guest rooms, including signature Ó suites, which showcase contemporary elegance and comfort. Guests will enjoy a variety of high-end amenities tailored for modern business travelers, including City House rooftop restaurant, offering panoramic views of San Juan’s skyline, a sunset bar overlooking the Miramar district, and an exclusive private club membership that provides curated events and unique community experiences through each of VERANÓ’s hotel locations.
As Area General Manager, Pierre-Alex will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s operations, ensuring the property’s seamless opening and day-to-day management while delivering on VERANÓ’s mission of gracious living. His role will be pivotal in establishing VERANÓ San Juan as a premier destination for both travelers and locals alike. Being an enthusiast of the world’s finest dining experiences, Pierre-Alex looks forward to the team delivering new elements of exceptional restaurant experiences and culture to the vibrant gastronomy offerings in San Juan.
“I’m honored to join VERANÓ Hotels + Resorts and lead the opening of VERANÓ San Juan,” said Pierre-Alex. “This project is incredibly special, not just for the brand but for the future of luxury hospitality in Puerto Rico. I look forward to welcoming guests to a hotel that blends timeless elegance and contemporary luxury with the vibrant energy of San Juan.”
VERANÓ Hotels + Resorts is committed to developing world-class hospitality destinations that offer elevated guest experiences and create lasting memories. Each VERANÓ property is distinguished by its dedication to gracious living, combining impeccable service, exceptional culinary offerings, curated entertainment, and a refined yet inviting atmosphere. VERANÓ San Juan will embody these values, soon to be joined by the forthcoming VERANÓ Caimito in a serene rainforest setting and VERANÓ Cabo Rojo on a tranquil stretch of coveted beachfront, each designed to deliver their own distinctive, unforgettable experiences while maintaining the brand’s signature level of excellence.
With over 15 years of international experience in leadership HR roles, Laura Moreno Salinas brings valuable expertise in talent acquisition, employee development, and cultural transformation to MEININGER Hotels.
Having started her career in hospitality, she has significant experience in the sector, including managing human resources for several Azimut Hotels across Europe and Hilton Hotels in London.
Before joining MEININGER, she held key roles in global technology companies in Berlin, where she implemented innovative strategies to optimize HR processes.
With the appointment of Laura Moreno Salinas as Senior Director People, MEININGER Hotels underscores its commitment to the sustainable advancement of its HR strategy, aiming to future-proof the company in light of the ongoing skills shortage.
Bob W, the tech-powered hospitality operator redefining the world of hotels and short-term rentals, has today announced the appointment of Hervé Deligny to Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
With over 25 years experience in financial leadership and scaling global businesses, Deligny brings with him a wealth of expertise across the hospitality and real estate industries.
At Bob W, Delingy will be tasked with spearheading Bob W’s continued growth across Europe and beyond.
Delingy started his career with PwC and spent more than 15 years at AccorHotels in Paris and London, working across finance and real estate divisions. He has since held CFO positions at notable hospitality brands such as Generator, Safestay, and Onefinestay.
Hervé Delningy, CFO at Bob W said: “Bob W’s ambitious growth plans and fresh approach to blending the worlds of hotels and short-term rentals mean it is well on its way to completely redefining the hospitality sector."
“The fast-growing European aparthotel market presents a wealth of opportunities, and I am eager to help drive Bob W’s tech-powered, sustainable model further forward. The demand for experiences that combine the consistency of a hotel with the flexibility of short-term rentals is only set to grow further, and Bob W is perfectly positioned to lead the way across Europe.”
Niko Karstikko, Co-founder & CEO of Bob W said: “Hervé’s extensive financial expertise in both hospitality and real estate will be critical as we continue our rapid expansion across Europe. The aparthotel sector is growing at lightning speed making it a highly lucrative opportunity for property developers and hospitality operators alike. Bob W continues to build on its reputation as a reliable, consistent household name for the modern traveler.”
Hervé’s appointment comes after a new joint venture between Bob W and Osborne+Co Investment Management (OCIM) launched a £120 million equity raise to acquire and repurpose hotel and office assets into high-quality short-term serviced apartments.
The joint venture plans to transform between 20 and 25 buildings across core European markets into 1,500 to 2,000 modern apartments and is targeting a GDV of £400 million for its initial development pipeline.
The Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort has announced the appointment of Pedro Moreira as the resort’s new General Manager. With over 10 years of experience under his belt in the hotel industry, Moreira is returning to the Minor Hotels Group for the next stage of his career.
Pedro Moreira’s career started in 2013 and has seen him work for big names in the hotel industry, such as the Ritz Four Seasons, The Parisian (Macau), THE 13 (Macau), Vila Vita Parc, and São Lourenço do Barrocal.
He has held roles such as General Operations Manager, Accommodation Manager, and Front Office Manager, among others. Between 2020 and 2023, he was part of the Minor Hotels team as Accommodation Manager at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort, and in 2021 he was recognised as the Best Accommodation Manager in Portugal in the Xénios Awards, organised by the Portuguese Hotel Managers Association (ADHP).
He holds a degree in European Studies from the University of Coimbra and two Postgraduate degrees: one in Hotel Management from Universidade Europeia, and another in Hotel Real Estate Investments and Asset Management from Cornell University.
