Human Resources

📚 Karen Donaghy has been named publisher of *Hospitality Design* (HD) magazine, succeeding Paul Bienkowski, who retired in October after over 40 years. Donaghy, with 20+ years in publishing, will focus on print and digital growth. Previously at Condé Nast and *Contract* magazine, she brings extensive design industry experience. HD, a leading trade magazine, is published 10 times annually, offering insights on hospitality design trends and projects. Donaghy is based near Philadelphia.

📈 Arturo Moreno was promoted to chief supply and data officer at Civitatis, a Spanish-language tours and activities platform. Moreno, who has been chief data officer for six years, will lead a new executive division focused on supply. The strategy emphasizes data-driven approaches to improve supply curation and expand offerings, particularly in ticketing and private tours. Chief Operating Officer Enrique Espinel will shift focus to international expansion. Inma López remains in charge of commercial operations with 7,000 global operators.

📈 Net Affinity, a hotel tech company operating in the UK and Ireland, will undergo a leadership change as Lauri Koop, CEO of Dutch-backed Hotel Tech Group (HTG), takes over in 2024. William Cotter, founder in 2000, steps down after 25 years. HTG's acquisition of Net Affinity earlier in 2023 aims for growth and innovation. Serving 400+ hotels, Koop, with 20+ years in SaaS, will enhance integration and expand by 2026, focusing on client hotel performance.

🚢 AmaWaterways has enhanced its Travel Agent Portal, offering 24/7 booking access for agents. Agents can instantly secure bookings by paying deposits via credit card. A fixed £75 regional airport supplement now applies to all UK airports, except the Channel Islands. Agents can also opt for cruise-only bookings by omitting flights. Confirmations and flight arrangements are communicated within 48 hours post-booking. Andrea Stafford, Sales Director UK & Europe, highlights the simplified booking process and increased flexibility.

🍽 Bret Thorn, a senior food & beverage editor, has been with Nation’s Restaurant News since 1999. In 2006, he won the Jesse H. Neal Award. Thorn, a Tufts University alumnus, studied at Le Cordon Bleu and worked in Beijing during the 1989 Tiananmen protests. He was president of IFEC in 2005 and inducted into the Disciples d'Escoffier in 2014. Thorn authored entries for the Oxford Encyclopedia in 2012 and 2015.

🏢 Antoine Dubois joins Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer as a key figure in Monaco’s largest employer. In 1863, this company created the Monte-Carlo district. Now, Dubois aims to boost growth in strategic segments by enhancing customer experiences. Leading sales, marketing, and revenue management, he prioritizes personalized luxury through service quality and digital tools. Reporting to the CEO and Deputy Chairman, Dubois emphasizes collaboration and innovation with his proactive team.

🏠 Antoine Louis-Tramoni joins Marriott International as Director of Development for France and the Benelux, supporting portfolio growth and advising investment partners. With over 10 years in hospitality and hotel real estate, he strengthens a team led by Alexandra Goguet and Anahita Perineau. Marriott operates 130+ hotels across 30 brands in the region, focusing on urban developments. The appointment aligns with the brand's expansion goals in Western Europe and the EMEA branded residences segment.

📈 September 2025, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a rise in unemployment to 4.4% despite 119,000 new jobs added. Restaurants gained 68,000 jobs in Q3, marking the strongest six-month gain, though job growth remains sluggish. Employment in eating and drinking places is up 144,000 jobs (1.2%) from pre-pandemic levels. Limited-service roles increased 23% since February 2020. However, consumer spending in the industry is slowing, with expectations of continued decline into early 2026.