Radisson appoints new area senior vice president

Radisson Hotel Group has appointed Tom Flanagan Karttunen as area senior vice president for the UK, Ireland and Western Europe (UKIWE).

Karttunen joined the hotel group more than 20 years ago, holding different leadership positions in numerous business areas at Radisson Blu Hotels in Copenhagen, Beijing, Manama, Hamburg and Galway.

He also served as district director for hotels in Turkey, Azerbaijan and China, based in Istanbul, before being appointed as area vice president of eastern Europe and Russia.

Radisson Hotel Group’s said the new responsibilities assigned to Karttunen signals its “commitment to growing talent”.

Chema Basterrechea, executive vice president and chief operating officer, said: “I am pleased to share the news of Tom’s expanded role as area senior vice president for both Northern Europe and UK, Ireland and Western Europe.

“Since joining Radisson Hotel Group more than 20 years ago, Tom has played an integral role in ensuring the progression of business growth. He has a track record of success in leading Northern Europe, one of Radisson Hotel Group’s most mature markets, and is sure to have equal success in UKIWE.”

Karttunen added: “I am excited to expand my current geographical responsibilities to include the UK, Ireland and Western Europe. Over the last few years, my team and I have worked extremely hard to reposition our northern Europe offering through an extensive renovation programme.

“I now look forward to continuing the journey in UKIWE, further developing our commitment to each region and to the growth of our team members.”

The countries of the UKIWE area include: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland, France, Belgium, Spain and Portugal.