Human Resources

Seasoned technology executive joins from Sage to lead tech and AI strategy as the business scales its unified platform globally [London & Newton, MA, March 19, 2026] – Access Hospitality, the hospitality…

📍 Stan Iliev is appointed dual general manager of Le Méridien and AC Hotel Denver Downtown. With over 15 years at White Lodging, he started in 2011 at Hilton Garden Inn, Chicago Midway, and has held roles in Chicago, Valparaiso, Louisville, and Nashville. Previously, Iliev was the GM of Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University. The hotels are centrally located in downtown Denver, close to the Colorado Convention Center and other landmarks.

📚 In 2026, the Savoy Educational Trust marks its 65th year by appointing Katharine Le Quesne and Anastasia Bloom to its board of trustees. Le Quesne, managing director of HoCoSo London, brings expertise in hospitality strategy and sustainability. Bloom adds financial and governance skills from her investment banking career. They join existing trustees to support educational projects aimed at enhancing skills in the UK hospitality industry. The Trust focuses on advancing hospitality education and career development.

📄 Outrigger Hospitality Group appointed Stephen Nickerson as VP of Operations for The Americas. Nickerson has leadership experience from Sonesta Hotel Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Candlewood Suites. Previously, he was SVP of operations at Midas Hospitality, managing a U.S. portfolio. Mike Shaff, EVP of Operations, praised Nickerson's expertise and leadership. This strategic move aims to enhance hotel team performance and guest experience across diverse markets.

📈 Mandy Walker joins Careys Manor in the New Forest as director of sales, bringing 18 years of experience from Rhinefield House and expertise in the MICE sector. Frances Trowbridge-Moore, with the company since May 2024, is promoted to spa manager at SenSpa, leading a team of 31, succeeding Lina Lotto, who retired in 2025. General Manager Steve Woodrow highlights their roles in enhancing guest experience and supporting growth.

🏖 Don Carlos Marbella, located between Marbella and Malaga, will reopen in summer 2025 after a €45 million renovation by Selenta Group. Jorge Manzur, with over 20 years at brands like Le Méridien and Westin, is the new GM. The hotel, part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, offers 284 rooms and 24 residences, with tennis facilities by the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center. Selenta Group aims to enhance its Mediterranean luxury reputation.

🚀 Company achieved 15× growth in 2025, now servicing over 1,000 properties across more than 90 management companies. Three senior executives have been added to support expansion.

🛢 TFE Hotels Europe appointed Jens Dünnebacke as regional director of key accounts to grow partnerships in European corporate travel. Reporting to Sin-Han Thiede, he will focus on long-stay business travel. Previously with Edyn Aparthotels, Dünnebacke led B2B sales in Europe. TFE aims to bolster its brands, including Adina and A by Adina, for business travelers and provide accommodation for local and international assignees. His expertise is vital for TFE’s European market expansion.