Kempinski Hotels names new COO

Kempinski Hotels has named Massimo Brancaleoni as its new chief commercial officer, effective from 1 November.

Brancaleoni joins Kempinski from Silversea Cruises, where he served as SVP of global sales and revenue following a 20-year career at Italian cruise line Costa Crociere where he held various roles, including senior VP of global sales and VP of Asia Pacific operations, as well as a brief stint as general manager of Spanish cruise line Ibero Cruises.

Kempinski CEO Barbara Muckermann, a fellow cruise industry veteran who joined the luxury hotel group earlier this year, said Brancaleoni’s “in-depth knowledge in pricing and revenue management, commercial planning and operations” will see him become a “great asset” to the company. 

Brancaleoni will replace Amanda Elder, who is stepping down to pursue other opportunities, according to a statement by the company.

Commenting on his appointment, Brancaleoni said: “I am very honoured to join Kempinski Hotels at this exciting point in time. As the company is working on a new global strategy and will be reviving the brand over the coming years, I am more than happy to be part of this journey and to shape the future of this iconic luxury hotel group as we move forward.”