Worldwide: Karl Bieberach has been named as senior vice president of global development for Belmond, effective 22 March 2021.
Bieberach will be responsible for the expansion of Belmond’s portfolio which spans hotels, trains, river barges and safaris. He brings more than 25 years of experience to the role and has time spent with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, and HVS International.
Most recently, Bieberach served as chief development officer at Rosewood Hotel Group.
He said: “It is a great pleasure to join Belmond, a pioneer in the world of luxury travel. As a brand that sees its role as a custodian of timeless heritage, I will continue to be guided by this philosophy, selectively expanding the footprint where not only can we offer authentic experiences but also play a role in celebrating the legendary art of travel. I am excited about the opportunities that await especially in this momentous time in the history of travel.”
Roeland Vos, president and chief executive officer at Belmond, added: “Already at the forefront of luxury, Belmond has a renewed and ambitious strategy that will position us as the leading provider of incomparable genuine travel experiences. Part of this strategy is our commitment to finding unique assets in remarkable locations that will further expand our collection of one-of-a-kind offerings to today’s discerning travellers.
“Karl has an excellent track record and proven ability to grow well-respected hospitality brands,” Vos continued. “With his wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, he will play an instrumental role in strategically growing the company’s footprint through property acquisitions and new management agreements.”
Alongside its expansion, Belmond, now part of LVMH luxury group, will continue to invest in restoration plans. These include the introduction of Grand Suites aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the renovation of Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino, which will reopen in April 2021.
