Hilton has revealed that Christian Charnaux will return to the company as EVP/chief development officer. He will start on July 1, reporting to Christopher J. Nassetta, president/CEO, Hilton, as a part of the company’s executive committee. Kevin Jacobs, who had served the dual role of CFO & president, global development, will continue in the role of CFO.
Charnaux joins Hilton from Inspire Brands—the restaurant company that owns Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s and SONIC—where he served as chief growth officer since its founding in 2018.
“We are delighted to be welcoming Christian back to Hilton and grateful to Kevin for his tremendous leadership during this period,” said Nassetta. “Christian is joining at a time of incredible momentum for our business and will play a critical role in helping us accelerate our global growth agenda. With his experience and focus, we will continue building on our network effect—giving more guests even more places to stay for every stay occasion.”
Previously at Hilton, Charnaux served in several brand management, commercial and finance positions, including leading Hilton’s investor relations efforts. Prior to Hilton and Inspire Brands, he was with the Boston Consulting Group, where he focused on the travel and consumer product sectors. He also worked for J.P. Morgan in the Technology Coverage and Mergers & Acquisitions groups. He currently serves on the boards of ARCOP and National DCP, and is vice chair of Georgia’s Partnership for Inclusive Innovation and on the University of North Carolina board of visitors.
“Having previously worked with Chris Nassetta and with many on the leadership team, I know the extraordinary culture and business to which I am returning, and I couldn’t be more enthusiastic about it,” said Charnaux. “I look forward to working collaboratively with our teams and owners as we continue to build on Hilton’s record-breaking results.”
