Kempinski Hotels has announced the appointment of Barbara Muckermann as chief executive officer. Muckermann previously was responsible for leading Silversea Cruises (part of Royal Caribbean Group), the world’s largest ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line. She joins the global luxury hospitality brand with 82 hotels in 36 countries at a time when Kempinski is preparing for growth in new regions worldwide.
Kempinski intends to add another 34 hotels and residences to its portfolio in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa in the coming years.
“I could not be more thrilled to be joining Kempinski Hotels as CEO during such a pivotal time for the brand,” says Muckermann on her appointment. “I am delighted to play an integral role in this incredibly iconic brand’s next chapter while honoring its rich history, and very much look forward to working in tandem with amazing colleagues globally to continue to make the Kempinski name synonymous with individual luxury.”
“Barbara has always been at the forefront of luxury, and her proven ability to elevate the guest experience while simultaneously maximizing profitability for leading travel brands made her the ideal choice to lead Kempinski Hotels,” said René Nijhof, chairman of the Board of Directors Kempinski Hotels. “Her dynamic, forward-thinking approach will be vital as we continue to usher in a new era of luxury for our brand. As Barbara takes the helm, she will be the first woman in the company’s 127 years of history to lead this iconic brand.”
During her more than 25 years of hospitality experience, she has successfully expanded sales and profitability as well as significantly upgraded the guest and customer experience for leading global brands in luxury and travel including Loro Piana, MSC Cruises and NCL.
A German native, having lived in Italy, France and the USA, Muckermann is fluent in five languages and is a Doctor in Political Sciences and Economics and holds a joint MBA from Columbia and London Business School.
Related Stories
Ultimate Jet Vacations Adds Three to Business Development Team
Dondra Ritzenthaler Takes the Helm as CEO of Azamara Cruises
Tech Is Trendy, but Human Interaction Reigns Supreme: Column