25. Henk Meyknecht, Senior Vice President Operations, Middle East & Africa, Kempinski Hotels
Europe’s oldest hoteliers await landmark anniversary next year
Although new to his current role, having taking on the appointment in June this year, Henk Meyknecht brings more than 30 years of industry experience, and 10 years of Middle East experience to his new position at Kempinski Hotels in this region, where he will oversee nearly 9,000 employees.
This year, with a pipeline of five upcoming hotels, Kempinski signed three new hotels, as well as entered into Lebanon and Congo. Kempinski’s pipeline in the region also includes new hotels in Al Khobar, KSA, and Muscat, Oman. Since joining Kempinski in the region, Meyknecht has already made his mark on the operations of its regional properties, by introducing what he describes as a “modular approach” to operating luxury hotels.
“With this approach we streamline the time our hoteliers are investing in operating the properties, generating more time to focus on guests and employees. Making tasks more focused, measurable and efficient. The principle is based on decentralised empowerment, allowing both individuals and team to contribute to improving the quality,” Meyknecht explains.
Next year, in April 2017, Kempinski Hotels worldwide is set to celebrate its 120th anniversary.
By the numbers
Number of years in the role: Appointed June 2016
5 Number of years with company
19 Number of Middle East operating hotels
5 Number of Middle East pipeline hotels
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