VP of Development for African Hospitality Business: Case Study
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Venari Partners was introduced to a VP of development candidate with more than 15 years’ experience in hotel development. The candidate was contracting for a boutique hotel group and therefore looking out for a new, permanent opportunity that offered the chance to work on equally unique and interesting projects on a macro scale.
An extended discussion was held with the candidate around their experiences, motivations and goals, as well as brands they found particularly interesting. From this, Venari Partners was able to draw up a shortlist of the most relevant companies, which were likely to provide the right kind of opportunities and make best use of the candidate’s extensive skillset. This included both well-known brands and a number of other exciting companies that the candidate hadn’t considered.
One contact, a globally renowned hotel group that Venari Partners had worked closely with in the past expressed an interest in an initial discussion with the candidate. At that moment a role was just opening up at the right level of seniority in his team. Once Venari Partners had coordinated this initial conversation, they were confident in inviting the candidate to interview.
Following completion of several further successful interviews with the regional Chief Executive Officer, Chief Development Officer, Chief Operating Officer and the Senior Vice President of Human Resources, the candidate was presented with an offer of employment. Venari Partners was able to support both sides in setting out the offer in a way which was attractive to the candidate and in line with the company’s policies and ultimately the candidate was very happy to accept.
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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