Yotel has appointed Phil Andreopoulos as Chief Executive Officer, with Hubert Viriot promoted to Vice Chairman.

A seasoned leader with decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Andreopoulos joins Yotel following a career at Marriott International, where he served as Chief Commercial Officer for EMEA at Marriott International, with responsibilities spanning 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, Andreopoulos served as Chief Operating Officer for Owner & Franchise Services EMEA and Sub-Saharan Africa, where he oversaw the successful growth and development of franchise operations, maximising the potential of the brand, systems and sales engines.

Andreopoulos’ appointment follows the news that Yotel’s majority shareholder, the Al-Bahar Group (‘the Group’), acquired an additional 30% stake in the company earlier this year increasing the Group’s holding in Yotel to more than 95%. The investment underscored the Group’s confidence in the future of Yotel and signals a bold new trajectory for the brand, as the company sets its sights on doubling its global hotel portfolio to 15,000 rooms by 2030.

“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. Now, it is time to scale the business further,” comments Talal Al Bahar, Chairman, Yotel and Al-Bahar Group. “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.

“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.”

Phil Andreopoulos adds: “I’m thrilled to join Yotel at such a pivotal moment in its growth. 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 travellers around the world.”