The move comes amid growing market demand for mixed-use developments that combine hotel operations with private homes.
“The rise in mixed-use developments where we can offer hotel management and branded residence services in conjunction allows us to serve our clients more holistically,” “It also enables consumers to not just experience our hospitality during their travels, but in the places they choose to call home.” – Bob van den Oord, CEO of Langham Hospitality Group .
Picenoni brings a combination of branded residence and hotel operations experience. In one of these, he oversaw residential and extended-stay development across the Middle East and Africa for Accor, and previously held asset management roles with Seven Tides Hospitality, covering properties operated by Minor Hotels Group and Mövenpick.
His operational background includes positions with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in the United States and Starwood Hotels & Resorts in the UAE, providing hands-on knowledge of the services underpinning hospitality-backed residential projects. Picenoni’s academic credentials include a degree from Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne, complemented by qualifications in real estate investment, asset management, and negotiations.
“Rico’s rare blend of branded residence and hotel operations experience makes him uniquely qualified to lead this key area of growth for the Group.” – Bob van den Oord, CEO of Langham Hospitality Group.
LHG is positioning its residential offerings as a strategic extension of its hospitality brand, enabling the Group to engage with clients beyond traditional hotel stays.
As part of LHG’s ongoing expansion in the Middle East, where the Group’s first hotel is scheduled to open in 2029, Picenoni will be permanently based in Dubai, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the region.
This article was written with the help of artificial intelligence using official information.