A Journey Beyond Borders: My Year of Global Insights and Gratitude

Celebrating a Year of Triumphs and Teamwork: A Heartfelt Thanks and Our Collective Journey in 2023

As the sun sets on 2023, it's a moment ripe for reflection and heartfelt gratitude. This year has been a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of collective effort, especially within the vibrant landscape of Minor Hotels Europe and Americas part of Minor Hotels

First and foremost, my deepest appreciation goes to every member of my team, Christian Friedrich Jacqueline Kanits Ruben Casas Elga Castro Rocio Diaz Cifuentes Vallarino Bárbara García Rodríguez Ismael Amor Irene Villafranca Mu?oz Cori Inti Galindo Páez Diana Marin Acosta Janneke Messiaen Maite Aguilar Natalie Moran thanks to you and the teams you lead we have achieved great success but more important "enjoyed the journey" working together. Your unwavering dedication, creativity, and passion have been the driving force behind our many achievements. For any moments where I may have fallen short, I extend my sincere apologies and a commitment to learn and grow from these experiences.

Each day, I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders like my mentor Ramon Aragonés Marín and my peers at the Management Board, their knowledge and experience are invaluable, and their leadership continues to inspire me. Together, we stride towards excellence, united in our commitment to elevate our industry and our company.

Together, we are stronger, wiser, and poised for remarkable achievements.

As we draw the curtains on this eventful year, I find myself reflecting on the whirlwind of travels and encounters that marked 2023. With close to 90 flights and more than 100 nights spent away from home, the year was as demanding as it was rewarding. Each mile traveled and every moment in transit was a step towards greater connection, understanding, and empathy.

The true essence of our journey in the hospitality industry lies in the connections we forge – with our teams, clients, partners, and the intricate realities of our business. These interactions are invaluable, transcending beyond mere professional exchanges. They are the building blocks of trust, understanding, and meaningful relationships.

Connecting with people across different cultures and geographies has been a profound experience. It has reinforced the importance of empathy – of putting ourselves in others’ shoes, understanding their perspectives, and appreciating the diversity that each individual brings to the table. This empathy is not just a professional tool; it is a way of enriching our lives and the lives of those we interact with.

Looking back, every effort, every late-night flight, every early morning meeting – they all gain significance when we consider the bonds they have helped us strengthen. The insights gained from being on the ground, the first-hand experiences of different market dynamics, and the personal touch in our interactions have been instrumental in shaping our strategies and decisions.

2023 marked a significant milestone in our industry's recovery, and being part of the Minor Hotels journey has been both an honor and a privilege. We welcomed the year with open arms, embracing the challenges and opportunities it brought our way. This year we have witnessed the remarkable recovery of our industry, and we have been fortunate to be part of this wonderful story. We celebrated the arrival of talents like Ian Di Tullio PhD , whose leadership and vision have infused new energy into our team.

Aside from my day by day at Minor Hotels Europe and Americas , a special note of thanks and congratulations to my other proffesional side ventures where I put my passion, specialy to DynamEat for revolutionizing the F&B pricing landscape. Javier Espinosa and Alessio Di Gaetano , your innovative approaches and remarkable achievements have set a new benchmark in our industry. Your success is a beacon of inspiration and a reminder of what we can achieve through ingenuity and perseverance.

The University Universidad Rey Juan Carlos deserves a notable mention for nurturing the future of Revenue Management. To witness the evolution and growth of these bright minds has been nothing short of extraordinary. A special nod to Pilar Talón Ballestero for her relentless drive and commitment to this initiative – your efforts are truly shaping the future of our industry.

I also want to acknowledge the accomplishments of THE COOL FOOD COMPANY the business expansion and consolidation are exemplary of the dynamism and adaptability crucial in today’s business world.

Reflecting on the year's journey, the lessons learned have been invaluable. They have enriched not just my professional life but have also offered new perspectives on personal growth and leadership. As we look towards 2024, I am filled with optimism and excitement for what lies ahead. The journey we have embarked upon together is one of continuous learning, adapting, and striving for excellence.

A heartfelt thank you to my wife Bárbara Rodríguez Marcos , my kids, and family for their unwavering support every day. You are the balance that keeps me grounded. Your understanding and generosity, acknowledging the passion and dedication I put into my work, make everything I do possible. Your love and encouragement are my constant source of strength and inspiration. I am endlessly grateful for your presence in my life. With you, every challenge is surmountable, and every success is more meaningful.

In 2024, I am fully embracing new adventures that go beyond achieving tangible goals. My journey is about continuing with a purpose – as a husband, father, a leader, and a passionate professional in this thrilling industry I am fortunate to be a part of.

Here's to exploring uncharted territories, nurturing meaningful connections, and making an impactful difference in every role I play. Let's make 2024 a year where our actions echo our deepest values and aspirations, propelling us towards a future as bright as the commitment we bring to each day.

Carpe diem, seize the year ahead, not just for success, but for significance.

Here’s to a new year filled with promise, progress, and unparalleled success!

With sincere gratitude,

Fernando Vives