Most Visionary Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025

TM June I 2025 Most Visionary LEADERS Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025 From Concept to Customer How to Implement Hospitality Innova?ons Effec?vely? Embedding Innova?on Why is Digital Transforma?on Crucial for Hotels Today? Diane Daudin-Clavaud Corporate Director of Global Business Development Nobu Hospitality Diane Daudin-Clavaud Architect of Global Hospitality Innovation

Celebrating Pioneers Driving Innovation in the Hospitality Industry Editor's Note I n an era defined by rapid transformation and heightened guest expectations, the hospitality industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. Innovation, sustainability, and human-centric service now converge to shape the future of the sector. Within this dynamic landscape, visionary leadership is not only valuable but essential. As the hospitality sector continues to recover, evolve, and grow in the post-pandemic era, these individuals stand as sources of inspiration. Their stories serve as both a roadmap and motivation for peers, emerging professionals, and stakeholders who are navigating their own journeys in this continually changing environment. guest experiences through technology, or promoting sustainability and inclusive practices, are making a significant and lasting impact on the industry. These leaders represent a broad spectrum of roles such as hoteliers, restaurateurs, entrepreneurs, and executives. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they share a common commitment to progress, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership. As the hospitality industry continues to navigate a period of significant change, it is the insight, resilience, and innovation of its visionary leaders that are setting new benchmarks for excellence. These individuals are not only guiding the sector through complexity but are also actively shaping its future with purpose and creativity. Their collective efforts serve as a powerful reminder that leadership grounded in adaptability, empathy, and forward- thinking is key to building a more sustainable and guest- centric industry. CIOLook in its recent edition titled Most Visionary Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025, recognizes individuals who are driving meaningful transformation within the sector. These professionals are not only navigating complex challenges but are also actively reshaping the standards of excellence, resilience, and innovation across the global hospitality landscape. Their efforts, whether in redefining luxury, advancing Have a great read ahead! Michael Wayne

C O N T E N T S 08 C O V E R S T O R Y Diane Daudin-Clavaud Architect of Global Hospitality Innovation A R T I C L E S 16 From Concept to Customer How to Implement Hospitality Innova?ons Effec?vely? 22 Embedding Innova?on Why is Digital Transforma?on Crucial for Hotels Today?

TM Most Visionary LEADERS Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025 Pooja M Bansal Editor-in-Chief CONTENT FOLLOW US ON Deputy Editor Anish Miller www.facebook.com/ciolook/ www.x.com/ciolookmagazine Managing Editor Prince Bolton WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON DESIGN Visualizer Dave Bates Art & Design Director Davis Mar?n Associate Designer Jameson Carl Featured Person Company Name Brief CONTACT US ON Email info@ciolook.com For Subscrip?on www.ciolook.com Diane Daudin Clavaud Director of Global Business Development Diane leads global business growth strategies for Nobu Hospitality, a luxury lifestyle brand known for its fusion of fine dining and boutique hotels. Nobu Hospitality web.mit.edu SALES Senior Sales Manager Wilson T., Hunter D. Customer Success Manager Nelson M. Copyright © 2025 CIOLOOK, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmi?ed in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from CIOLOOK. Reprint rights remain solely with CIOLOOK. Dina heads Staypineapple, a playful, upscale hotel brand celebrated for its bold design and exceptional guest experiences. Staypineapple staypineapple.com Dina Belon President Sales Execu?vesTim, Smith TECHNICAL Technical Head Peter Hayden Joseph drives strategic leadership at PM Hotel Group, a leading hotel management company operating a diverse portfolio of branded and independent properties. PM Hotel Group pmhotelgroup.com Joseph Bojanowski President Technical Consultant Victor Collins SME-SMO Research Analyst Eric Smith Lindsey leads Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, uniting luxury properties under one global network. Preferred Hotels & Resorts preferredhotels.com Lindsey Ueberroth CEO SEO Execu?veAlen Spencer Nick oversees premium chauffeur-driven transport services at Aura Journeys, delivering bespoke travel experiences across the UK. sales@ciolook.com Aura Journeys aurajourneys.com Nick Jackson-Smith Director June, 2025

C o v e r s t o r y Diane Daudin-Clavaud Architect of Global Hospitality Innovation “Business development isn’t just about locations; it’s about curating relationships that last.” Corporate Director of Global Business Development Nobu Hospitality

Most Visionary Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025 T intersection of culture, design, experience, and technology. As global travel increases, digital lifestyles become more prominent, and visitors become more sophisticated, hospitality brands are being challenged to do more than offer luxury—they need to craft rich, emotionally engaging experiences. Customers now are not merely seeking comfort but also connection, narrative, and authenticity. The most effective hospitality businesses are those that move beyond transactional service to deliver cultural participation, wellness, and a sense of home. At the same time, the industry is confronting a new range of issues: sustainability needs, changing guest behavior, and the need for hybrid spaces that can satisfy both leisure and lifestyle. Business growth in this era is no longer just about size—it's about strategic fit, cultural sensitivity, and ethical development. This paradigm shift has raised the bar for hospitality leaders, demanding not only operational excellence but a visionary mindset towards people, place, and purpose. It is in this dynamic and multifaceted environment that Diane Daudin-Clavaud has cut a unique trajectory, defining the way international hospitality brands such as Nobu develop, evolve, and engage with the world. he hospitality sector has experienced a deep evolution in the past decades. No longer confined to accommodation and service, it now finds itself at the “Hospitality is not a commodity—it’s a conduit for culture, emotion, and legacy.” History, Society, and Dynamics from Université de Bretagne Occidentale. Her educational background, along with her natural curiosity and enthusiasm, led her to different professional engagements across industries such as Journalism, Art & Entertainment, Family offices, Consulting and Hospitality. Having spent a career spanning continents and sectors, she has merged strategic thinking with an intimate knowledge of multiple cultures, placing herself at the cutting edge of international business development. As the Corporate Director of Global Business Development at Nobu Hospitality, Diane's path is one of testament to resilience, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to forging meaningful connections worldwide. A Multifaceted Career: From Journalism to Hospitality Leadership Diane's career is marked by its diversity and versatility. She started her career as a journalist, developing her communication skills and learning about the art of storytelling. This background was incredibly useful as she moved into marketing and business development roles, where she was able to apply her skill in relating to audiences and stakeholders alike. Early Foundations: A European Upbringing with Global Aspirations Raised in Europe, Diane's early life was influenced by a rich cultural mosaic. Her early exposure to opposing worlds—traditional European culture versus the life-changing experiences of evolving in Saudi Arabia—gave her a distinctive worldview. This dualism not only expanded her perspective but also fueled a passion for comprehending the complex interplay between culture, business, and human relationships. Her Saudi Arabian sojourn was a major watershed moment. Submerged in an extremely dynamic marketplace, Diane negotiated regional complexities with acumen attuned to both domestic nuances and worldwide trends. She oversaw big projects, fostered professional contacts, and cemented solid connections in both hospitality and private industry. Her years there helped establish the roots of her leadership style, focused on empathy, cultural acuity, and foresight. Her education provided a strong foundation for her subsequent careers. Diane graduated with a Master's in Social Sciences in

Embracing Change: The Decision to Pursue an Executive MBA Leading Global Expansion at Nobu Hospitality In 2014, Diane came aboard at Nobu Hospitality, drawn to the brand's distinctive combination of luxury, culinary sophistication, and cultural refinement. At first, she was responsible for communications and marketing, but soon proved herself to be a strategic thinker and was given more responsibilities. Now, as Corporate Director of Global Business Development, Diane is instrumental in growing Nobu's presence across continents. In a defining moment of introspection, Diane came to understand the necessity of advanced education in order to remain at the forefront in a rapidly growing competitive environment. At the age of 36, she decided to take a courageous leap in pursuing an Executive MBA by signing up for studies at MIT Sloan and The Lisbon MBA Católica | Nova. This experience was not simply about learning but about pushing herself to think innovatively and think differently and challenge herself in perceiving problems. Her duties include discovering new markets, establishing alliances with high-net-worth individuals, and negotiating deals that are consistent with Nobu's brand philosophy. Diane's style is more than transactional relationships; she builds long-term alliances based on mutual respect and shared vision. Her skill in handling intricate negotiations and cultural nuances has been instrumental in Nobu's successful expansion into various markets. The MBA experience enhanced her knowledge of international business strategies, financial management, and innovation. It also offered a platform to network with like-minded professionals and mentors, further enhancing her network and influence. This choice reinforced Diane's dedication to ongoing learning and self-improvement, traits that have been central to her career path. “Creativity doesn’t flourish in rigid structures—it needs trust, autonomy, and inspiration.”

“I don’t lead from a pedestal; I lead with presence.” A Leadership Philosophy Based on Empathy and Authenticity recharge and keep a sense of inner peace. Diane's leadership style is one of empathy, authenticity, and respect for cultural diversity. She subscribes to leading with presence, listening before leading, and creating a space in which creativity and innovation can flourish. It's not about imposing authority but about generating trust and collaboration from her team and partners. Travel is also an essential aspect of Diane's existence. Not only does it appease her curiosity but also afford her chances to engage with multicultural backgrounds and viewpoints. These interactions make her professional work even more effective by allowing her to solve problems from a transnational perspective and with empathy for the subtleties of cultures. Vision for the Future: Sustainable Growth and Cultural Integration She is stressing the need for clarity, kindness, and consistency as leadership. Through these, Diane has created a work environment that appreciates diversity, induces bold thinking, and focuses on long-term relationships rather than short-term returns. Her leadership is a case study in the ability of emotional intelligence and cultural awareness to drive business outcomes. In the future, Diane sees a world where hospitality is beyond borders, a world where hospitality brands and experiences are “globally connected, yet locally meaningful”. She wants to spearhead projects that combine sustainability, cultural truth, and cutting-edge design in Nobu's expansion plans around the world. By targeting markets that share Nobu's philosophy and vision, she hopes to create spaces that speak to the hearts of visitors. Navigating Challenges: Resilience in the Face of Adversity Diane's professional life has not been without its difficulties. Departing Saudi Arabia, where she had established a successful professional network, was a major decision that pushed her to her limits. Coming back to Europe had its own challenges, such as re-establishing her network and professional identity in a new environment. Diane’s commitment to sustainable growth goes beyond the environment, encompassing social and cultural dimensions as well. With the Nobu team, she promotes projects that have respect for the local community, emphasize inclusiveness, and bring value to the communities they operate within. Such an integrated approach resonates with her vision of how business can be successful in a way that's not defined only by profit figures but also by the overall impact on society and the world. But Diane saw these obstacles as opportunities for personal development. She directed her energies toward additional education, business opportunities, and eventually back to Nobu Hospitality with a fresh perspective and vision. This time of rebirth cemented her faith in the need for flexibility, determination, and staying focused in the face of uncertainty. Inspirational Leadership Diane Daudin-Clavaud's story is a powerful tale of resilience, flexibility, and visionary leadership. From her European heritage to her international pursuits, she has always embodied an unshakeable dedication to excellence and cross-cultural understanding. As she continues to define the future of hospitality at Nobu, Diane is a shining example of innovation and integrity, inspiring others to lead with purpose and passion in a globalized world. Personal Balance: Combining Passion with Professionalism Even with her demanding work, Diane has a strong sense of valuing personal well-being and balance. She feels that self- nurturing is a key to keeping creativity and leadership effectiveness alive. Practicing activities like yoga, pilates, sailing, and experiencing art and culture helps her

From Concept to Customer How to Implement Hospitality Innovations E?ectively? T scenario, the success driver for hotels, restaurants, resorts, and allied service providers is right implementation of innovations. Hospitality innovation does not mean embracing the new trend or technology; it means implementing strategic changes to serve better, be more effective in operations, and drive sustainable growth. he hospitality sector is forever changing with changing customer needs, emerging technologies, and competitive pressure. In this ever-changing This article highlights how hospitality companies can successfully execute innovations by leveraging planned processes, stakeholder management, and ongoing assessment. Defining the Purpose and Scope of Innovation One must define the purpose and scope of the innovation project before one initiate any innovation project. Hospitality innovation ranges from electronic guest interactions and touchless arrival to smart room solutions and environmentally friendly practices. Organizations initially have to look into the precise needs of their operation and customers. They have to perform internal audits, market analysis, and customer feedback analysis in order to understand where innovation can generate real returns. Having established the necessity, companies have to make sure innovation aligns with their brand identity, model of service, and long-term vision. For instance, a high-end hotel that is concerned about customized service can keep AI- 16 17 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 | www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

based concierge apps at the top of their list, while an economy hotel can aim to automate mundane tasks in order to minimize overheads. Clear signposting, rational interfaces, and courteous service can prompt customers to acquire the skills needed to use new systems. Companies must also learn from feedback at the time of implementation and after implementation to make sure the innovation is accepted and meets the needs of their customers. Building a Culture That Embraces Change Organizational culture to a great extent dictates success in innovation. Innovation will perish despite it being the most promising even with a stubborn culture. Leaders need to develop a culture that is characterized by creativity, experimentation, and adaptability. This calls for free communication where the employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas without restrictions and also expressing concerns. Monitoring Performance and Measuring Impact After installing an innovation, ongoing monitoring is crucial to ensure that it's fulfilling its anticipated outcomes. Key KPIs must be established early on to assess success in customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, increase in revenue, and sustainability. Ongoing performance measurement, data examination, and customer feedback give an indication of how the innovation is performing in practice. Staff empowerment and training are also involved. Workers need to be not just trained on how to use new systems or devices but also instructed on why new changes are being implemented and how they lead to improved service overall. Frontline staff involvement in the innovation process can also bring about down-to-earth ideas as well as ease of implementation. This kind of information can be used to reinforce further development or to justify a decision to scale or adapt the innovation. Organizations need also to be willing to adapt based on performance data and feedback. Openness and an ability to iteratively improve are key features of effective innovation management. Investing in the Right Technology Conclusion Technology advancements fuel hospitality innovations of today, from AI-driven chatbots to IoT-equipped smart rooms. But the best technology is not owning the new solution in town; it is owning the systems with a proper integration with the existing infrastructure and bridging some of the operational gaps. Being able to sustain hospitality innovations is more than having new tools or new styles deployed; it is a conscious process with certain explicit goals, stakeholder involvement, and a sensitive culture. By knowing the reason behind each innovation, investing in the correct technologies, involving staff and visitors, and frequent checking of results, hospitality companies are able to employ innovation as a means to power better guest experiences and sustainable growth. With an industry where levels are elevated, being able to introduce change efficiently is not merely a market advantage—it is essential. Scalability, security, usability, and vendor support are essential problems to solve. Moreover, there must be a road map for implementation along with IT organizations and technology partners so that, in the phase of transition, minimum disruption occurs. Pilot testing is a mandatory process of this stage. With controlled tests in chosen business areas, management can engage in discussions of performance, receive feedback, and make the innovation more precise before implementing it at large scale. Engaging Stakeholders and Customers Effective implementation of innovation calls for the support and collaboration of all stakeholders, such as management, employees, investors, and visitors. Public debate about the objectives, advantages, and effects of the innovation can establish trust and fewer resistances. From their own point of view, innovations must be what they need without creating puzzlement and inconvenience. 18 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

Embedding Innova?on Why is Digital Transformation Crucial for Hotels Today? I critical strategy for hotels striving to remain competitive and meet the ever-changing expectations of modern travelers. This transformation encompasses the adoption of digital tools and processes to enhance operational efficiency, improve guest experiences, and drive revenue growth. As hotels face increasing pressure from online travel agencies, alternative accommodation platforms, and shifting consumer behaviors, embracing digital innovation is no longer optional but essential for survival and success. n today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, the hospitality industry is undergoing a significant evolution. Digital transformation has emerged as a This article highlights why digital transformation is paramount for hotels today, demonstrating the benefits of improved operational efficiency, enhanced guest engagement, and data-driven decision-making. Enhancing Operational Efficiency through Digital Tools One of the primary reasons digital transformation is vital for hotels is its ability to streamline operations and reduce costs. Traditional manual processes such as booking management, check-ins, housekeeping schedules, and maintenance requests can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital solutions such as property management systems (PMS), automated check-in kiosks, and smart room controls allow hotels to automate routine tasks, freeing staff to focus on higher-value activities. This not only improves operational efficiency but also helps reduce labor costs and minimizes human error. Moreover, digital transformation facilitates seamless integration across various hotel departments, creating a unified system that enhances communication and collaboration. For example, cloud-based platforms enable real-time updates on room availability, guest preferences, and maintenance needs. 23 22 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 | www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

This interconnectedness ensures faster response times and smoother operations, leading to higher guest satisfaction. In a highly competitive market, these operational improvements give digitally savvy hotels a significant advantage by enabling them to deliver consistent and reliable service efficiently. demand fluctuations and tailor marketing campaigns accordingly. Predictive analytics can forecast booking patterns, helping hotels manage inventory and staffing levels proactively. This strategic use of data not only improves profitability but also ensures that hotels remain agile and responsive in an increasingly complex marketplace. Embracing digital transformation thus equips hotels with the competitive advantage needed to adapt quickly to changing conditions and customer preferences. Elevating Guest Experience with Personalization and Convenience Driving Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Guest experience is at the heart of the hospitality industry, and digital transformation has redefined how hotels engage with their customers. Modern travelers expect seamless, personalized interactions throughout their journey, from booking to post-stay follow-ups. Digital tools such as mobile apps, chatbots, and AI-driven recommendation engines empower hotels to deliver tailored services and enhance convenience. For instance, mobile apps enable guests to book rooms, request services, and check in or out without waiting in line, significantly improving the overall experience. In addition to operational and customer-focused benefits, digital transformation plays a crucial role in helping hotels meet growing sustainability and corporate responsibility goals. Today’s travelers are increasingly conscious of environmental impact and expect hotels to adopt eco- friendly practices. Digital technologies enable hotels to monitor and optimize energy consumption, water usage, and waste management through smart systems and IoT devices, leading to more sustainable operations. Personalization driven by data analytics is another critical component. By leveraging guest data—such as past stays, preferences, and feedback—hotels can customize offers, room amenities, and on-site experiences to meet individual needs. This personalized approach not only increases guest satisfaction but also fosters loyalty, encouraging repeat visits and positive reviews. In an era where online reputation can make or break a hotel’s success, digital transformation provides the tools needed to create memorable experiences that resonate with guests long after their stay. Furthermore, transparent reporting and sustainability certifications are often facilitated by digital platforms, allowing hotels to communicate their green initiatives clearly to guests and stakeholders. This not only strengthens brand reputation but also aligns with regulatory requirements and global sustainability trends. By integrating digital solutions focused on sustainability, hotels can reduce operational costs, meet consumer expectations, and contribute to a greener future, thereby securing long- term business viability. Conclusion Leveraging Data for Strategic Decision-Making and Competitive Advantage Digital transformation has become an indispensable element of modern hotel management, driving improvements in operational efficiency, guest experience, and strategic decision-making. Hotels that invest in digital tools and data analytics position themselves to meet the demands of today’s tech-savvy travelers while optimizing internal processes. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, the integration of digital technologies will define which hotels succeed in attracting and retaining customers, ultimately shaping the future of the industry. For hoteliers, embracing digital transformation is not merely a trend—it is a critical pathway to sustained growth and relevance in a rapidly changing market. Data is often referred to as the new currency in business, and hotels are no exception. Digital transformation enables hotels to collect, analyze, and utilize vast amounts of data to make informed strategic decisions. Through advanced analytics platforms and business intelligence tools, hotels can monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as occupancy rates, revenue per available room (RevPAR), and customer satisfaction scores in real time. This data- driven approach allows management to identify trends, optimize pricing strategies, and allocate resources more effectively. Additionally, data insights help hotels understand market dynamics and guest behavior, enabling them to anticipate 24 www.ciolook.com | June 2025 |

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Most Visionary Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025

Most Visionary Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry, 2025

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