Stephanie Greger began her career with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in 2018 as Director of Marketing and Commerce at Mandarin Oriental, Milan and was promoted to Hotel Manager in September 2021. During her tenure, Stephanie has led the hotel team to new heights, ensuring that the property remains positioned as a leading luxury hotel in the heart of Milan's social and business centre.
The luxury hospitality group Kempinski Hotels is proud to announce the arrival of Massimo Brancaleoni as of 1 November 2024. Amanda Elder steps down to pursue other opportunities.
An Italian national, Massimo Brancaleoni, who most recently held the position of Senior Vice President Sales and Revenues at Silversea Cruises, brings over 25 years of commercial experience to his new role as Chief Commercial Officer. He has a proven track record of leading large teams and developing profitable global sales strategies. Massimo spent a significant part of his career, a total of 20 years, with the cruise ship company Costa Crociere. He began as Pricing & Revenue Management Director, and then progressed to become Vice President Asia Pacific Operations, Vice President Worldwide Sales Services and was later promoted to Senior Vice President Global Sales. Throughout his various positions, he worked in locations such as Paris, Genoa, Hong Kong, Madrid, Miami and Monaco.
Brancaleoni was educated at the University of Economics in Genoa and the IESE Business School in Barcelona. Since 2022, he has been a guest lecturer in the Economics of Cruise, Ferry and Yachting Industries at Università degli Studi di Genova.
“We are thrilled to welcome Massimo, a seasoned tourism leader with an international background and immense strategic expertise. With his in-depth knowledge in Pricing & Revenue Management, Commercial Planning and Operations as well as in Digital Transformation, he will be a great asset to Kempinski in shaping the growth and success as we move into a new era,” states Barbara Muckermann, Chief Executive Officer Kempinski Group. “At the same time, we thank Amanda Elder for her incredible commitment to our company over the past nine years and her outstanding motivational and inspiring leadership. We wish her only the best of success for her future and look forward to welcoming her again as a guest in one of our hotels around the globe.”
“I am very honoured to join Kempinski Hotels at this exciting point in time”, says Massimo Brancaleoni on his appointment. “As the company is working on a new global strategy and will be reviving the brand over the coming years, I am more than happy to be part of this journey and to shape the future of this iconic luxury hotel group as we move forward.”
As General Manager at Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, Duarte Gonçalves da Cunha brings his wealth of luxury hospitality experience to the resort, with the goal to become one of Europe's most celebrated hotels. With previous experience at properties with exceptional service standards, Duarte holds a core belief in the inherent nobility of serving others, both his guests and the teams he integrates and leads.
Throughout his career, Duarte has worked at four Aman Resorts in Morocco, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Montenegro, as well as Finca Cortesin on the Costa del Sol. Most recently, he distinguished himself as General Manager for Discovery Hotel Management, leading the team at Octant Douro in Portugal for the past four years. Duarte holds degrees in Hotel Management and Strategic Marketing from Les Roches Hotel Management School in Switzerland and has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry.
NOVUM Hospitality, has appointed Samira Said (born Etmenan) as the new Chief Executive Officer, sharing the role with her brother, David Etmenan, who is the current CEO and owner.
Samira Said’s new role as co-CEO builds on her extensive experience within the company. Previously, she served as Chief Brand Officer, where she was instrumental in developing the upper-midscale brand, the niu. Her work ensured that each hotel within the niu brand aligned with the company’s lifestyle-focused values. Additionally, Samira played a crucial role in the successful completion of NOVUM Hospitality’s partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts, a deal finalized in April 2024.
As co-CEO, Samira Said will focus on managing the changes required to integrate and implement the co-branding and rebranding initiatives related to this partnership. She will oversee onboarding and integration processes, particularly in relation to the co-branded Holiday Inn – the niu and the European launch of IHG’s Garner TM and Candlewood Suites® brands.
In her expanded role, Samira will take on a broader range of responsibilities, including the strategic management of hotel operations, the development of marketing strategies, and the coordination of projects. Her efforts will be directed towards optimizing daily operations at the hotel level, enhancing brand visibility, and increasing customer loyalty. Additionally, she will oversee the overall commercial strategy within the company’s cooperation network and ensure the efficiency of its operating facilities.
The introduction of dual leadership at NOVUM Hospitality is intended to improve efficiency in a complex and competitive market environment. The combined leadership of Samira Said and David Etmenan is expected to provide significant advantages as the company continues to establish new brands and integrate innovative processes. The leadership team is further supported by Christian Moll, Deputy CEO, and Dr. Stefan Gneuss, CFO, who will work closely with the co-CEOs.
Originally from Ovar, Northern Portugal, Pedro Pinto is a distinguished culinary professional and a passionate advocate for Portuguese gastronomy. His professional journey includes notable stints at AbaC Barcelona (3* Michelin), Vila Joya (2* Michelin), The Yeatman (2* Michelin), Areias do Seixo, Bela Vista (1* Michelin), Vila Vita Parc (where he worked for six years), and Pine Cliffs Resort (where he managed six outlets for two years).
Pedro's culinary philosophy is rooted in creativity, innovation, seasonality, and a profound respect for the product, producer, and Portuguese traditions. Pedro is an advocate of utilising local products and honouring cultural heritage.
As Executive Chef for Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, Pedro believes that the project will become a landmark in the region. He envisions it as a breath of fresh air in the Algarve's hotel scene, offering an experience that promotes nature and modern luxury in a region predominantly known for its coastal dining destinations.
Ludo de Jong has taken on the role of General Manager at Anantara The Marker Dublin, with a mission to further establish the hotel as the go-to destination for both social and business gatherings in the revitalized Docklands area, known for its concentration of tech and finance companies, stylish dining spots, and top-tier theaters.
A seasoned hospitality professional, De Jong has an impressive track record of leading high-profile hotel projects, including rebranding efforts, pre-openings, and major renovations.
His leadership has consistently driven his hotels to the forefront of the market, fueled by a deep commitment to inspiring his teams to create memorable guest experiences.
De Jong’s passion for the culinary arts has been instrumental in the creation and launch of several highly regarded dining venues, including Michelin-starred establishments.
With over 20 years of experience at the pinnacle of The Netherlands’ luxury hospitality sector, De Jong joins Anantara The Marker Dublin after serving as Cluster General Manager at NH Collection Barbizon Palace Amsterdam and Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam.
Before this, he successfully launched NH Collection Eindhoven Centre and held the position of Assistant Hotel Director at the former NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky.
Earlier in his career, De Jong contributed his expertise as a member of Marriott International’s event management advisory board while working in a senior food and beverage and events role at Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel.
Engel Ayurpura, the only authentic Ayurveda retreat in the Italian Dolomites, has appointed Mauro Massei as its new head chef. He starts with immediate effect and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise in vegan and Ayurvedic cooking.
He joins from the Paradiso Pure Living Hotel in Bolzano where as head chef for over two years he developed a complete repertoire of vegan menus. Carmen Kohler, the owner and Wellness Concierge of Engel Ayurpura said: ‘We are delighted to have persuaded Massei to join our team. His understanding of Ayurvedic cuisine and vegan lifestyle is in perfect alignment to our guest requirements.’
Born in Treia in February 1983, Chef Mauro developed an early interest in cooking at home. He says: ‘My mother seemed to be able to create delicious things to eat as if by magic and as a small boy I wanted to do the same.’
After graduating in 2002 from Italy’s Istituti Professionali del Settore Servizi Alberghieri e Ristorazione in the Marche region, he took his first job as a cook in a traditional Italian restaurant in the same area. His career took him to his first head chef role at Ristorante Il Casino del Marchese in Jesi in 2014 since when he has worked in luxury resort hotels and restaurants across Italy.
A passion for the natural world has given him a profound awareness of animal welfare and well-being, and by 2016 he became a committed vegan. Believing a plant-based diet to be better for humans and the planet, he began to create his own recipes. His talent is evident in the flavoursome, healthy vegetarian-ayurvedic fusion menus unique to Engel Ayurpura.
When not in the kitchen, Mauro is can be found hiking in the surrounding countryside where he feels at peace and at one with nature.
Hyatt Regency Boston / Cambridge announces the appointment of Matthew Huss as General Manager. A beloved hospitality industry veteran, Huss brings 25 years of experience to the newly renovated, 479-room contemporary hotel, where he will oversee day-to-day operations.
In his new role as General Manager, Huss will lead the development of strategic initiatives tied to business objectives, while elevating the guest experience through an innovative approach. Huss is often celebrated for his focus on creating a culture of care, purpose, and fun, through warm and genuine hospitality.
A humble leader, Huss lives by the “In the Same Boat” philosophy that began early in his career when he was a dishwasher, which promotes team members being treated with respect and inherently valued no matter what position they hold.
This philosophy ensures that everyone is rowing in the same direction, working together to move forward. Well-known for his exceptional leadership, Huss brings deep experience to this new role, after serving as General Manager and other operational leadership roles for top-tier hotel brands such as Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels and Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, from coast to coast.
Most recently, Matt was at the helm at Hyatt Centric Magnificent Mile as General Manager, where his team earned AAA 4-Diamond status and the 2023 Davidson Hospitality Hotel of the Year Award during his tenure.
The Chancery Rosewood is pleased to announce the appointment of Jake Leslie Director of Food & Beverage, an exciting addition to the hotel’s esteemed leadership team.
With a wealth of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Jake is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the culinary landscape of The Chancery Rosewood, a landmark Grade II listed building that is being reimagined as a new retail destination and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® property. The hotel will offer a diverse portfolio of luxury outlets and partners, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the Mayfair community.
Prior to joining The Chancery Rosewood, Jake was the Director of Food & Beverage at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, overseeing an operation exceeding $400 million, of bars, fine dining and casual restaurants, with partners including Nobu, Gordon Ramsay and Giada De Laurentiis. Before this, Jake held the position of Director of Restaurants at The Bellagio Hotel & Casino, where he oversaw 20 dining outlets, three of which being recipients of one and two Michelin stars.
In his new role at The Chancery Rosewood, Jake will lead the hotel’s Food & Beverage division, which will feature a carefully curated selection of dining options. “I am incredibly excited to join the pre-opening team at The Chancery Rosewood. It is an honour to be part of such a prestigious project, and I look forward to contributing my experience to create unparalleled epicurean and service experiences.” Jake Leslie, Director of Food & Beverage, The Chancery Rosewood.
Jake’s experience in managing high-profile culinary operations is well-aligned to him leading The Chancery Rosewood’s varied Food & Beverage offerings. His hands-on approach will be instrumental in overseeing this operation, which will be a main driver of establishing the hotel as the heart of the Mayfair community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jake to the team as our Food & Beverage Director. With an impressive international background and keen commercial acumen, he brings a wealth of experience that will be invaluable as we prepare to open our doors next year. Jake’s vision and expertise align perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional and memorable experiences for our guests.” commented Managing Director Michael Bonsor.
Located in the prestigious neighbourhood of Mayfair, The Chancery Rosewood will balance the rich history of the iconic building with contemporary comforts prioritised by today’s luxury traveller, the hotel will showcase architecture restoration by British architect Sir David Chipperfield of David Chipperfield Architects and interiors by French architect Joseph Dirand. Upon completion, The Chancery Rosewood will deliver Rosewood’s iconic residential atmosphere through 144 thoughtfully designed guestrooms and suites, as well as revitalised public spaces and dining venues. Additional amenities and facilities consist of an integrative wellness facility, retail outlets and a selection of meeting and events spaces including a 600-guest ballroom. The hotel will mark Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ second property in London and sixth in Europe.
Iconic Luxury Hotels is delighted to announce the appointment of Samantha Rieu as General Manager of its luxury boutique townhouse hotels, 11 Cadogan Gardens and The Chelsea Townhouse, both in the heart of Chelsea, and the only two Relais & Châteaux hotels in London.
Samantha Rieu FIH is an accomplished Hotel Manager with over 25 years of experience in 5-star luxury properties. Most recently she was Hotel Manager of The Beaumont Hotel in London and prior to that held the same role at DUKES London. Previous properties also include The Fairmont Boston, The Savoy, Mandarin Oriental London, and independent Michelin star restaurant, Harvey Nichols, along with WSH-Baxter Storey (UBS site).
Samantha is passionate about five-star personalized service, developing others and giving back to the hospitality industry and actively participates in associations like Hospitality Action, Room to Reward, Reunion des Gastronomes, and Be Inclusive Hospitality. As a mother of three, she strives to balance a successful career with family life and aims to change industry perceptions through her role as Joint Secretary on the IOH London committee promoting diversity, inclusion and community partnerships.
Half French and half German, Samantha graduated from the Lycée Hotelier of Strasbourg, and was awarded the accolade of "General Manager of the Future" in 2019 by the Master Innholders and ranked among the top 50 female hoteliers in 2023. After finishing her Cornell University General Manager Program, via the Master Innholders scholarship, she is set to become a St Julian scholar at the end 2024.
PONANT, world leader in luxury exploration travel, announces appointment of Thomas Romieu as Chief Digital and Information Systems Director for the group as of June 10, 2024.
A graduate of Sciences Po Paris and ESSEC, Thomas Romieu is a renowned expert in the digital transition and relationship marketing. He began his career with L'Oréal in France and USA, before joining Microsoft where he was Marketing Director and then Sales Director for Consumer & Online activities. He then worked for LVMH as Chief Digital Officer for the group before going on to take charge of the digital transition of the subsidiary DFS, world leader in luxury travel retail. Before joining PONANT, Thomas was Director Digital Products at the pharmaceutical group, Sanofi.
Thomas Romieu heads up the new IT and Digital Transition department, reporting directly to Presidency of PONANT. His mission is to ramp up the IT and digital functions to support the company's development. His responsibilities include information systems management, cybersecurity, data analytics and digital. He is a member of the Management Committee.
Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens is delighted to announce the appointment of Jann Kaiser as General Manager. Jann brings a wealth of expertise in luxury hospitality to his role, with over two decades of experience working across five countries, six cities and seven Four Seasons properties, including London, Chicago, Istanbul and Beirut.
Jann’s journey in the hospitality industry began at the Hotel School The Hague in Holland, where his first tenure was secured with Four Seasons and his career began at the renowned Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills. He then progressed to Restaurant Manager and Director of Food & Beverage at Four Seasons properties in Istanbul, Beirut, Chicago and London where his leadership and dedication propelled him to the role of Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Ten Trinity Square. While Hotel Manager, the property secured its first Forbes Five Star rating, a second Michelin star for La Dame De Pic, and AA Hotel of the Year London 2018-2019.
In 2021, Jann arrived at Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens located within the Greek Riviera as Hotel Manager, driven by a desire to advance sustainability and set a visionary strategy. Jann revised the way the hotel empowers its 1000+ staff to embody the traditional hospitality “filoxenia” at the heart of Greek culture and inspire a dynamic, diverse and inclusive culture, boosted by team members from around the world. In 2023, the hotel took the 35th spot in the World’s 50 Best Hotels and was awarded its first Forbes Five-Star designation.
In his new capacity as General Manager of Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens, Jann is poised to lead with his signature blend of expertise, passion, and cultural understanding. He is committed to upholding the resort’s reputation for personal spirit, and exceptional service whilst creating memorable experiences for guests. Commenting on his appointment, Jann said, “I am thrilled to be appointed as General Manager at Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens. I look forward to working together to create unforgettable experiences for our guests and further elevate the resort’s reputation as a leading resort in Athens and continuing to be part of local culture and community.”
