YOTEL has appointed Phil Andreopoulos as CEO. He has replaced Hubert Viriot, who has transitioned to the role of vice chairman.
The appointments follow the news that the company’s majority shareholder, the Al-Bahar Group, acquired an additional 30% stake in the company earlier this year, increasing its holding in YOTEL to more than 95%.
“YOTEL’s success over the last 15 years has been exemplary, from start-up concept into the global company it is today with an expansive portfolio of properties in prime locations,” said Talal Al Bahar, chairman, YOTEL and Al-Bahar Group. “Now, it is time to scale the business further. Phil Andreopoulos brings a wealth of commercial and operational experience and under his leadership, YOTEL will enhance its distribution, direct business contribution and loyalty proposition. He will also drive expansion of both the managed and franchise businesses in key markets.”
He continued, “I would like to personally thank Hubert Viriot for his instrumental role in driving YOTEL’s growth. We are delighted to welcome him as vice chairman, where his experience and vision will continue to add significant value to the company and its stakeholders.”
A leader with decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Andreopoulos joins the company following time at Marriott International, where he held multiple senior leadership roles across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
“I’m thrilled to join YOTEL at such a pivotal moment in its growth,” he said. “The pioneering concept and global footprint mean YOTEL’s global recognition supersedes its size and that, paired with the agility of being independent, creates a unique opportunity to scale quickly and offer owners, investors and franchisees the speed and innovation they crave in the industry. I look forward to working alongside the talented YOTEL team and the board to build on the company’s strong foundation, expand our global presence and continue delivering unforgettable experiences for travelers around the world.”
Most recently, Andreopoulos served as chief commercial officer for EMEA at Marriott, where his responsibilities spanned brand management, marketing, e-commerce, sales, reservations, revenue management, loyalty, communications and consumer insights across 78 countries and all Marriott brands.
Prior to this role, he served as COO for owner & franchise services EMEA and Sub-Saharan Africa, where he oversaw the successful growth and development of franchise operations, maximizing the potential of the brand, systems and sales engines.
The announcement follows the appointment of Yvonne Thomsen as CFO earlier in the year. She joined the company from IHG, where she held the role of VP, finance, Europe/CFO, Six Senses Hotels.
