Heralding the beginning of a new era, Kempinski Hotels announces a new executive leadership team tasked with developing and repositioning Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Under the stewardship of Barbara Muckermann, Kempinski’s Group Chief Executive Officer, two key senior leadership positions have been appointed, positioning Kempinski as a dynamic, world-class leader in the luxury hospitality industry, ready to embark on a new chapter.
“I am absolutely thrilled to welcome Gordon and Rasha to the senior leadership team at Kempinski Hotels. Now is a pivotal time for the company as we usher in a new era of the brand’s 127-year journey in the luxury hospitality space. We are at the precipice of transformational change and with these strategic appointments, I am excited for what’s to come. Gordon and Rasha represent the best in their fields, and I look forward to working closely with them to define the next chapter for this iconic brand,” says Barbara Muckermann, Group Chief Executive Officer.
Gordon Drake, Chief Financial Officer
Gordon Drake has been appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer for Kempinski Hotels. In his role, Gordon will oversee the company’s financial operations, analysis and risk assessment. Gordon will also play a vital role in the company’s strategic initiatives moving forward and ensure the effective utilisation of financial resources to enhance profitability and drive growth.
A noted leader in the real estate and hospitality industry, Gordon joins Kempinski with over 30 years of global experience in corporate capital markets, asset management, risk management as well as the development and implementation of operational and financial strategy.
“I am delighted to join the Kempinski family at such an exciting time in the company’s journey. With a legacy of excellence in luxury hospitality, I look forward to working alongside the talented team to drive sustainable growth, strengthen financial strategies, and create long-term value for our stakeholders. Together, we will continue to elevate the Kempinski experience and build a strong foundation for future success,” says Gordon Drake, Chief Financial Officer.
Gordon most recently held the position of Chief Executive Officer for The Doyle Collection, leading the company out of COVID, overseeing a revamped structure in sales & marketing, driving improved operational standards and loyalty programme participation and investing in the company’s people and culture.
Prior to The Doyle Collection, Gordon held various C-Suite and Board positions, including at Kingdom Hotel Investments, Six Senses Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Westmont Hospitality, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts and The Savoy Hotel.
A British National, Gordon holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Bristol and is an Associate Chartered Accountant and Associate Member of Corporate Treasurers.
Gordon succeeds Stuart Dickie, Kempinski’s previous Chief Financial Officer. Stuart will remain with Kempinski as an Advisor and will continue to represent Kempinski on various external boards.
Rasha Lababidi, Chief Product Officer
Rasha Lababidi has been appointed as the new Chief Product Officer for Kempinski Hotels. In this newly created role, Rasha will lead product innovation, design and guest experience across the brand’s luxury global portfolio.
With over 25 years of executive marketing management, branding, guest experience, product and concept development, innovation and transformational corporate strategy expertise within luxury hospitality and real estate, Rasha brings a wealth of experience and strategic acumen to the role.
“I am excited to be joining Kempinski, a brand renowned for its exceptional service and luxury experiences. As Chief Product Officer, my focus will be on driving innovation and enhancing the guest journey through thoughtfully curated offerings and forward-thinking solutions. I look forward to collaborating with the team to continue delivering world-class products that align with our commitment to excellence and meet the evolving needs of our discerning guests,” says Rasha Lababidi, Chief Product Officer.
Rasha previously held the esteemed position of Senior Director of Marketing at Emaar and Head of Marketing at Al Maabar International Investments (currently Eagle Hills). From innovation to revitalization, Rasha has led brand, marketing and concept development teams for some of the region’s most iconic brands and destinations.
Rasha is also the co-founder of Meraki & Modus, a concept and strategy firm specialising in creating visionary concepts and strategies for luxury lifestyle destinations around the world. To date, Meraki & Modus has successfully delivered over 150 hospitality concepts across four continents in addition to corporate transformation projects for property development, masterplan visioning and go-to-market strategies for some of the worlds’ leading luxury hospitality and property development groups.
Rasha holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University and a Master of Science from the University of Surrey.
These strategic appointments will be instrumental in accelerating Kempinski’s transformation and growth, marking the beginning of a bold new chapter for Kempinski to set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality.
