London, United Kingdom, October 11, 2021 / TRAVELINDEX / Belmond today announced the appointment of Karl Bieberach as Senior Vice President of Global Development. Set to begin his new role on 22nd March, 2021, he will be responsible for the global expansion of Belmond’s portfolio which spans hotels, trains, river barges and safaris. Prior to joining Belmond, he served as Chief Development Officer at Rosewood Hotel Group.
Mr. Bieberach brings 25 years of experience to Belmond following a successful career in a variety of senior roles at well-renowned hospitality brands including Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Marriott International and HVS International. Having worked extensively in almost all corners of the world, he has evaluated or transacted nearly 500 deals globally.
Roeland Vos, President & Chief Executive Officer of Belmond said of the appointment: “Already at the forefront of luxury, Belmond has a renewed and ambitious strategy that will position us as the leading provider of incomparable genuine travel experiences. Part of this strategy is our commitment to finding unique assets in remarkable locations that will further expand our collection of one-of-a-kind offerings to today’s discerning travellers.
Karl has an excellent track record and proven ability to grow well-respected hospitality brands. With his wealth of industry knowledge and expertise, he will play an instrumental role in strategically growing the company’s footprint through property acquisitions and new management agreements.”
Mr. Bieberach’s background includes hotel and residential development, acquisitions, feasibility and investment analysis. He speaks English, Spanish and French fluently and is passionate about food, art and travel.
Mr. Bieberach said: “It is a great pleasure to join Belmond, a pioneer in the world of luxury travel. As a brand that sees its role as a custodian of timeless heritage, I will continue to be guided by this philosophy, selectively expanding the footprint where not only can we offer authentic experiences but also play a role in celebrating the legendary art of travel. I am excited about the opportunities that await especially in this momentous time in the history of travel.”
Belmond, now part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH, steps proudly forward into its next phase of evolution. Alongside its strategic expansion, the company also continues to invest in its sensitive restoration plans including the introduction of new Grand Suites aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the renovation of Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino which will reopen its doors in April 2021.
About Belmond
Belmond has been a pioneer of luxury travel for over 45 years, building a passion for authentic escapes into a portfolio of one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring destinations.
Since the acquisition of the iconic Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has continued to perpetuate the legendary art of travel, taking discerning global travellers on breathtaking journeys. Its portfolio extends across 24 countries with 46 remarkable properties that include the illustrious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, remote beach retreats like Cap Juluca in Anguilla, Italian hideaways such as Splendido in Portofino, or unrivalled gateways to world natural wonders such as Hotel das Cataratas inside Brazil’s Iguazu National Park. From trains to river barges, safari lodges to hotels, each unique property offers an incomparable experience with its own story to tell. The essence of the Belmond brand is built upon its heritage, craftsmanship and genuine, authentic service. Belmond sees its role as custodians of timeless heritage, dedicated to preserving its assets through sensitive ongoing restoration plans. Belmond is part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.