Kempinski Hotels Appoints Frank Veenstra as Chief Development Officer, Ushering in a New Era of Growth in Luxury Hospitality
Geneva, Switzerland — September 11, 2025
In a significant strategic move, Kempinski Hotels has appointed Frank Veenstra as Chief Development Officer, a decision poised to shape the trajectory of the company as it fortifies its presence in the ultra-luxury hospitality sector. Veenstra’s elevation to this pivotal role underscores Kempinski’s commitment to navigating the evolving landscape of high-end travel by capitalizing on emerging market opportunities.
In his capacity as Chief Development Officer, Veenstra will be instrumental in formulating and executing the global development strategy for Kempinski. His responsibilities will encompass identifying high-value investment assets, expanding the company’s footprint through management agreements, and fostering a robust development team aimed at ensuring long-term success. His appointment comes at a time when Kempinski is actively seeking to diversify and enhance its offerings in response to the shifting demands of an increasingly discerning clientele.
Barbara Muckermann, the Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Hotels, lauded Veenstra’s extensive expertise in luxury hospitality and strategic growth. “Frank possesses an exceptional ability to align the burgeoning expectations of a new generation of travelers with meaningful business opportunities,” she remarked. This insight is critical for Kempinski as it not only seeks to adapt to changing consumer preferences but also aims to remain an industry leader amid growing competition.
Veenstra’s professional background is notable, featuring senior roles at prestigious organizations such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, NH Hotels, and Corinthia Hotels. His wealth of experience positions him well to evaluate and refine Kempinski’s project pipeline while enhancing the brand’s positioning in the luxury market. Under Muckermann’s leadership, the company has embarked on an ambitious refurbishment initiative, initiating more renovation projects in the past year than in the previous decade combined. This strategic focus on modernization reflects Kempinski’s dedication to evolving its offerings to meet the desires of a new generation of luxury travelers.
Currently, Kempinski operates a total of 75 properties across 33 countries, with more than 25 new projects underway worldwide. This expansive portfolio demonstrates the company’s intent to grow its footprint globally, particularly in key markets where luxury tourism is witnessing rapid growth. The recent appointment of Veenstra is expected to accelerate this development, creating opportunities for compelling new venues that reflect the brand’s heritage of excellence and innovation.
In addition to Veenstra’s appointment, Kempinski has further strengthened its leadership team with the hiring of Hoda Tahoun as Chief Talent Officer, effective April 2025. This move highlights the company’s comprehensive strategy for fostering internal talent during a period of ambitious transformation in the ultra-luxury segment. Reporting directly to Chief Human Resources Officer Karin Raguin, Tahoun will spearhead initiatives related to recruitment, talent development, and succession planning. Her distinguished career of over 27 years in executive search, finance, and hospitality, including a recent role at Russell Reynolds Associates, positions her as a vital asset in attracting and nurturing top-tier leadership.
Muckermann noted that Tahoun’s appointment is a testament to Kempinski’s commitment to sustainable growth and a people-centric organizational culture. “In an industry where exceptional service is paramount, securing the right talent is essential to delivering extraordinary guest experiences,” she asserted. This focus on staff development and engagement is expected to enable Kempinski to maintain the high standards of hospitality that its guests have come to expect.
As Kempinski Hotels navigates its next chapter in luxury hospitality, both Veenstra and Tahoun represent foundational pieces in a larger strategic vision aimed at addressing the evolving needs of luxury travelers. With their guidance, Kempinski is poised not only to enrich its storied legacy but also to redefine the benchmarks of excellence in the luxury hotel industry.
As the global landscape of hospitality continues to shift, companies like Kempinski must ensure they remain forward-thinking, responsive, and committed to upholding their promise of timeless luxury, all while scaling new heights in a competitive market.
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