Pauline Wilson named EMEA lead for Hilton’s focused-service hotels

A time of growth

Pauline Wilson has been appointed vice president, focused service operations, EMEA at Hilton Worldwide. This means that she’ll be directly responsible for 60 Hilton-managed hotels in the group’s focused-service portfolio, which includes the Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn brands.

Wilson takes charge at a time of significant growth for Hilton’s focused-service brand portfolio, with the group planning to expand its focused-service presence in EMEA by more than 65% over the next five years – helped by six openings this year alone. Upcoming launches include Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone next to the UK’s most famous racing circuit.

Wilson said: “This is an exciting time to be in the hospitality industry, with an unmistakable appetite for travel returning across our region. And it is a particularly rewarding time to be joining our focused-service team, where we have such significant and interesting growth plans.”

Global travel expertise

Wilson boasts more than 25 years of leadership experience in the travel industry. Before joining Hilton, she held senior roles with companies including Virgin Atlantic Holidays, where she was vice president of product and operations, and Tui Group.

Her recent accolades include being named in the 100 Women to Watch Index 2020 by Women in Hospitality, Travel and Leisure, where she now sits on the advisory board.

Simon Vincent, EMEA president of Hilton, said: “We are thrilled to have Pauline join the team, bringing with her considerable experience and expertise in global travel. I am confident that she will lead her teams to continued success – delivering great experiences for our guests and value for our owners.”

Wilson is taking over the post from Alexandra Murray, who is now leading Hilton hotels in South-East Asia.

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