Human Resources

🍴 Ron Ruggless, a senior editor since 1992 at Informa Connect’s Nation’s Restaurant News, has extensive experience in foodservice journalism. He was with the Dallas Times Herald from 1982 to 1991, including roles as restaurant critic and food editor. Ruggless moderates panels at various industry events, including MUFSO and RestaurantSpaces. He previously worked for the Charlotte Observer (1980-1982) and Omaha World-Herald (1978-1980). Connect with him on social media (@RonRuggless on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok).

📈 Katharina Dein, Jelena Kezika, and Andrea Krenn assume pivotal roles at Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) in 2023. Dein, with GHA since 2013, becomes VP of Commercial, while Kezika, also since 2013, is VP of Strategy. Krenn, part of GHA from 2021, is now Senior VP of Communications. GHA, with 800+ hotels in 100 countries, champions gender diversity, with women making up 60% of leadership. New hotel additions in 2025 include Cinnamon Hotels (Sri Lanka), Sunway Hotels (Malaysia), and Rotana Hotels (UAE).

✈️ Auguste Bajorunaite, a former flight attendant for five years, transitioned to Senior Sales Manager at FL Technics, a part of Avia Solutions Group, managing aircraft maintenance. She studied aviation management at Kazimieras Simonavicius University. The aviation maintenance market is witnessing 3-5% annual growth due to post-pandemic recovery. Challenges include rapid decision-making, competitive MRO market, and engineer shortages. Koh Samui, Thailand, is her favorite airport, and she emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and communication skills for success.

📷 Oscar Postma, with over 25 years in luxury hospitality, is the new General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Previously overseeing operations at Conrad Singapore Orchard and Conrad Centennial Singapore, he led a major brand transition at Regent Singapore. In his new role, Oscar will enhance guest experiences, leading a diverse team and fostering innovation. His return to The Ritz-Carlton marks a homecoming to his roots in elite hospitality.

📈 Tom Bell joins Gekko, a subsidiary of the Accor group, in early 2025 as Market Director for Teldar Travel in Northern Europe, Spain, and Portugal. He now oversees the Leisure division, including Teldar Travel, Infinite, and Miles Attack brands. With 25+ years in the travel industry, Bell will work with the Gekko Executive Committee to expand internationally, focusing on digital transformation to enhance travel agency services.

📈 Indian travel technology firm RateGain appoints Parijat Tiwari as executive vice president and general manager of distribution, focusing on global strategy, innovation, and growth. With 17+ years of experience, including leadership roles at Paytm and BCG, Tiwari will leverage AI to enhance distribution. Bhanu Chopra emphasizes Tiwari’s strategic vision and operational expertise. Tiwari aims to drive RateGain’s mission of building an AI-powered travel platform, contributing to its global expansion and efficiency.