Human Resources

🏠 Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) appoints Rico Picenoni to lead its mixed-use development strategy, emphasizing branded residences. Picenoni brings expertise from Accor, Seven Tides Hospitality, and academic credentials from Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne. LHG’s first Middle East hotel is set to open in 2029, with Picenoni based in Dubai to drive growth. The initiative merges hotel stays with private homes, enhancing client engagement beyond traditional hospitality experiences.

💸 Neil Thomson, with 30 years of hospitality finance experience, joins Soho House & Co as CFO. He was previously CFO of Tasty Restaurant Group and held senior roles at Yum! Brands. Andrew Carnie, CEO, highlights Thomson's operational and financial expertise as crucial for scaling the business. Thomson aims to drive growth and profitability. This move aligns with Soho House & Co’s strategy for global expansion and enhanced membership offerings.

📄 Nicolai Scheugenpflug appointed as Director Corporate F&B at Dorint Hotel Group, succeeding Philipp Kramer. Reporting to COO Stefanie Brandes, he will oversee F&B for Dorint's three brands. With experience at Meatery GmbH, Seaside Group, and more, he aims to enhance profitability, efficiency, and innovation. Certified as a “System Catering Specialist” trainer since 2017, Scheugenpflug focuses on practical, sustainable structures and guest-oriented service. This aligns with Dorint's strategy to improve profitability and guest experience.

📈 Aly El-Bassuni, with over 30 years in hospitality, joins Choice Hotels as Senior VP of Managed Hotels Division. His extensive experience includes roles at Aimbridge Hospitality, Wyndham, and Radisson. Aly emphasizes operational excellence and innovative brand solutions. Choice Hotels aims to enhance global operations, evidenced by Tobias Reinecke's promotion within the EMEA region. Aly’s leadership is expected to fortify operational management and strategic growth.

📈 Nizar Weshah, with 26 years in hospitality, oversees Hyatt's operations in Saudi Arabia, focusing on strategy, performance, and expansion. He has worked in Jordan, Azerbaijan, Serbia, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, particularly in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar. His role supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming for sustainable growth and talent development. Saudi Arabia is becoming a key business and leisure destination due to significant developments and investments in tourism infrastructure.

📈 Kristian Toivanen, Aurelia van Lynden, and Dan Clayton will report to Kempinski's Chief Product & Experience Officer, Rasha Lababidi. Kristian, ex-Executive Director at The Aspen Tree, Thailand, now serves as VP Wellness & Spa. Aurelia, with 13 years in luxury travel, is VP Experiences. Dan, founder of FoodSheikh, is VP of Food & Beverage & Hospitality. These strategic roles enhance Kempinski's focus on wellness and cultural experiences, following Hoda Tahoun's appointment as Chief Talent Officer.

🏠 Jenni Benzaquen will report to Anthony Ingham at Rosewood, overseeing residential growth and operations. With over 20 years in luxury real estate, her role involves integrating Rosewood properties globally. Rosewood operates 11 residential properties, aiming to expand further. CEO Sonia Cheng emphasizes strategic focus and the success of Rosewood Residences Beverly Hills. Benzaquen’s appointment strengthens their expansion strategy, targeting urban and resort destinations while maintaining high standards and community connections.