Travel industry legend Barbara Muckermann has switched from the ocean to the land, joining Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group.
The former leader of Silversea Cruises has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Hotels.
She joins the global luxury hospitality brand with 82 hotels in 36 countries as Kempinski prepares for growth in new regions worldwide and more properties on the horizon.
The group 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”, said Ms Muckermann.
“I am delighted to play an integral role in this incredibly iconic brand’s next chapter while honouring 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.”
With more than 25 years of hospitality experience, Ms Muckermann 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, Ms 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.
Meanwhile in local news, experienced tourism industry leader Benjamin Brown has been named as the new General Manager of the luxury Silky Oaks Lodge in Queensland.
And Norwegian Cruise Line has bolstered its sales team with the appointment of two new Business Development Managers.
Brad Hanna has been appointed to the newly created role of Business Development Manager for South Australia (and Western Australia from July 1. Aaron Dodkin is the new Business Development Manager for NSW and ACT.
