2023 Hospitality Leadership Movement & Trends
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Following a rather stable year for C-suite movement in hospitality in 2022, there was considerably more activity this year. We have analysed and examined 35 key appointments – and while many were representative of senior candidates we typically see in the sector, there were nonetheless a number of interesting new hiring trends.
Read on for our insights on a fascinating year!
Gender diversity has noticeably come to the fore across the industry. This follows what was arguably Jumeirah’s most notable appointment in late 2022, when they made Katerina Giannouka their new CEO. Accor, Marriott, IHG, Dorchester Collection, and Rosewood Hotel Group all followed suit by appointing female leaders in C-suite positions in 2023, with a focus on commercial roles.
In hospitality leadership, internal promotions typically outnumber external recruitment by a considerable margin. In 2023, however, companies increasingly valued fresh sets of eyes when it came to directing business towards the future – 43% of C-suite appointments came from external hires. This contrasts with 2022, where organisations favoured familiarity amid a turbulent market. Some notable external movers include Omer Acar, CEO for Raffles & Fairmont, joining from Katara Hospitality, and Ben Trodd, COO at AMAN, who joined from Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts.
In recent years, new blood has been increasingly favoured in the hotel sector, with organisations looking outside for fresh talent. Although the majority of C-suite candidates (88%) in 2023 still came from within the industry, we’ve seen some notable external hires in the hotel sector in 2023. For example, Mandarin Oriental CEO Laurent Kleitman joined from Parfums Christian Dior, while Dr. Joerg Zobel became COO at Rosewood Hotel Group, joining from Eschenbach Optik.
If recent years are any indication – and if history repeats itself following a crisis like the pandemic – we are expecting considerable turnover in C-suite positions in coming years. With growth forecasted to continue for the hospitality industry, along with internal transformations and consistent demand, brands will seek to thrive rather than just survive, ensuring all stakeholders are satisfied.
If you are looking to discuss executive search, thinking of making changes within senior leadership, or looking for your next career opportunity, please don't hesitate to reach out. We possess a global network and are highly skilled at conducting talent and DEI market mapping, compensation benchmarking, and leadership assessment mandates.
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Nelamar joined Venari Partners in 2025, bringing over 15 years of experience in executive search and leadership advisory. Having previously held a Partner position at True Search, alongside roles at Spencer Stuart and Heidrick & Struggles, she brings extensive experience advising organisations on senior leadership appointments and talent strategy. With a truly international perspective shaped by living and working across the United States, Latin America and Europe, Nelamar has advised a diverse range of organisations, including multinational corporations, family-owned businesses, high-growth companies and private equity firms. Based in Miami, she is fluent in English, Spanish, Italian and French, bringing valuable cultural understanding to her work with clients across global markets. Nelamar holds a Bachelor's degree in International Affairs from John Cabot University in Rome and a Wine & Spirits Certificate from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. Her international education and professional experience reflect a broad curiosity and appreciation for different cultures, adding another dimension to her global approach to executive search.
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