Wilhelm Bender has been elected chairman of supervisory board and Oliver Bonke is to serve as the group’s new CEO.

This announcement follows André Witschi’s recent resignation from his chairman position and the news that Marcus Bernhardt is also to leave the company.

Looking ahead

Under new leadership, Steigenberger Hotels AG now aims to take off and realise the full potential of Deutsche Hospitality brands after a challenging period in the market.

Jihong He, CEO International Business of Huazhu Group, said: “I am pleased to welcome Wilhelm Bender, an internationally highly recognised manager and supervisory board member. His experience in managing complex transformation processes will be essential as we take off again after a challenging period in the market.”

“I would like to thank André Witschi and Marcus Bernhardt for their work and wish them all the best for their future endeavours,” she added.

Supervisory expertise

Newly elected chairman of supervisory board, Wilhelm Bender, served as chairman of the executive board of Fraport AG for 17 years. Since that time, he has been active on a number of supervisory boards and company advisory boards.

Bender commented: “Since my Frankfurt childhood days, I am familiar with Steigenberger, and I have been close to the company for my whole career. I feel privileged to serve as chairman of the supervisory board of Steigenberger Hotels AG as of today.”

“Mutual trust and respect will be my guiding principles as we kick off our joint mission with the owner Huazhu Group, the executive board and the entire supervisory board.”

Leadership experience

The company’s new CEO, Oliver Bonke, is bringing with him more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He previously served as CEO in the Middle East, Europe, India, Americas and President and COO, based in Hong Kong, for Shangri-La Group.

Previous roles include serving as chief commercial officer of Loews Hotels & Co., chief commercial officer of InterContinental Hotels Group in North and South America and senior vice president of sales and marketing EMEA, and before that Asia Pacific, of Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

“Oliver Bonke is a distinguished expert of the global hotel industry,” said Jihong He. “He has proven his ability to build and grow business on three continents. I got to know Oliver as an inspirational leader who is constantly pushing innovation on all fronts, and I am sure he will make our brands shine brightly.”

Bonke commented: “Deutsche Hospitality today is a well-respected, relevant player in the market. It will be an honour to work with Huazhu and the global team to realise the full potential of this remarkable company and its brands.”

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