Kempinski Hotels Guest Experience Elevated with New Leadership

New Leadership to Transform Wellness, Experiences and culinary

Geneva – Kempinski Hotels has announced strategic appointments designed to transform the Kempinski Hotels guest experience across its global portfolio. The group named three new Vice Presidents – Kristian Toivanen, Aurelia van Lynden, and Dan Clayton – to its newly formed product and experience team. Reporting to Chief Product & Experience Officer Rasha Lababidi, the trio will oversee wellness and spa, destination experiences, and gastronomy concepts. Together, they will enhance how guests connect with each property, blending creativity with flawless execution.

Wellness Appointments Strengthen Kempinski Hotels Guest Experience

Kristian Toivanen, the new Vice President of Wellness & Spa, brings decades of experience from luxury icons such as The Savoy and Claridge’s in London. Moreover, his leadership in global longevity and wellness resorts positions Kempinski Hotels at the forefront of a growing travel segment. As a result, wellness becomes more than a service—it becomes a defining element of the Kempinski Hotels guest experience.

Enriching Destination Experiences

Appointed Vice President of Experiences, Aurelia van Lynden joins with over 13 years of expertise in luxury travel. She previously worked at Abercrombie & Kent and held senior roles at Perowne International and Pelorus. Importantly, her work in curating bespoke experiences for ultra-high-net-worth travelers ensures that Kempinski Hotels can deliver memorable journeys rooted in authenticity. Transitioning from design to execution, she will oversee cultural immersion, adventure, and community-driven experiences.

Driving Culinary Innovation

Dan Clayton steps in as Vice President of Food and Beverage & Hospitality. His expertise in culinary storytelling, placemaking, and strategy—along with his role as founder of the well-known culinary platform FoodSheikh—strengthens Kempinski’s gastronomy vision. As dining continues to define travel memories, his leadership will shape restaurants, bars, and rituals that set Kempinski apart in competitive markets.

Aligning with Global Luxury Hospitality Trends

The global luxury hospitality market, valued at more than US$166 billion in 2025, is evolving rapidly. Travellers are now prioritizing wellness, cultural immersion, and authenticity over traditional amenities. Kempinski’s latest appointments directly align with these trends, ensuring the group remains at the forefront of experiential luxury.

Redefining the Luxury Hospitality Standard

The global luxury hospitality market, valued at over US$166 billion in 2025, is evolving rapidly. Travelers increasingly seek wellness, authentic culture, and elevated gastronomy instead of traditional amenities. With these appointments, Kempinski Hotels is redefining the guest journey by combining local character, personalization, and modern luxury. This commitment ensures the brand remains a leader in meaningful and innovative experiences.

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