Bob W, the
Tech-powered hospitality operator, Bob W, has today announced the appointment of Philip Ward, former CEO of JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group for the EMEA region, to its Board of Directors.
A leading figure in the European hotels and hospitality investment industry, Ward brings with him over three decades of experience in real estate, investment banking and hospitality advisory.
At Bob W, he will act as an independent voice for shareholders, offering guidance on the company’s direction, answering shareholder questions about operations, ensuring decisions align with company success and providing objective oversight.
His appointment comes as Bob W continues to expand rapidly across Europe, including in Greece, where the operator last month announced plans to launch a third building in Athens.
The industry veteran brings 35-years of expertise in hospitality and real estate, and most recently served as CEO of JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group for the EMEA region. Here he led a team of over 130 hotel experts across 10 countries.
He has worked with Brookfield Financial Corp, KSL Capital Partners and Rothschild & Co in his time and is now a trusted adviser with deep expertise in sourcing capital, structuring complex transactions and steering clients through changing market conditions.
Philip Ward, independent non-executive director, said: “I’ve followed the impressive trajectory of Bob W for some time and have been consistently impressed by their unique blend of technology, sustainability, and hospitality expertise.
“The serviced apartment model is evolving rapidly, and Bob W is at the forefront of this change – delivering flexible, design-led experiences that travellers love and investors trust. I’m excited to contribute to the next stage of the company’s growth journey.”
Niko Karstikko, Co-founder & CEO of Bob W, said: “Philip is one of the most respected names in European hospitality investment. His deep knowledge of real estate and his strategic insight into the hospitality sector will be invaluable as we continue to grow our footprint across key European markets.
“Philip’s appointment further strengthens our ability to forge meaningful partnerships and execute on our ambitious vision for sustainable, tech-powered hospitality.”
