Martin Ykema
I began my journey in hospitality by earning a BHA in Marketing & Consumer Behaviour from Hotelschool The Hague in 1988. This solid foundation launched my career, enabling me to thrive in diverse management roles across Europe and beyond. Over the years, I have held senior leadership positions with top hotel organizations, including HRG Hotels, Vienna House, Lindner Hotels, and Accor.
With over 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I have consistently focused on developing teams & management and driving strategic growth. As the Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director for HRG Hotels, I was responsible for co-managing a portfolio of over 140 leased & owned hotels in 10 countries, overseeing more than 6,000 employees. My expertise spans operations, commercial & strategic planning, talent management and executive leadership, ensuring successful outcomes for multiple global hotel brands under my leadership, as well as the integration of acquired hotel portfolios.
Earlier in my career, I held pivotal roles at Accor Hotels, such as General Manager and Area Director, among others in New York, Prague and Poland, where I contributed significantly to major hotel renovations-and openings, business growth and employee development. An absolute highlight in my career is to play as Chief Operating Officer a leading role in the development and growth of the Vienna House brand to become one of the meaningful players in the CEE region.
Currently, as the Managing Director and Partner at Hoteliart, I continue my commitment to the industry by offering consultancy and coaching services to C-level executives and teams. My passion for hospitality remains unwavering as I strive to inspire and mentor the next generation of leaders in this ever-evolving industry.