Accor expands its digital and tech services team
Cristina Cavaco has been appointed as governance director, and Adel Zaher as vice president of customer technology
Accor has announced the appointments of Cristina Cavaco to the position of governance director for the digital and technology services, and Adel Zaher to the role of vice president of customer technology for franchisee, Northern Europe.
It comes as Accor plans to implement digital technologies across its hotels to “enhance guest and employee experience”.
Cavaco joins following three and a half years as general manager at Ibis Styles Gloucester Road. The Ibis Styles London Gloucester Road was the first Accor hotel in Northern Europe to provide a fully digital experience with contactless solutions.
The hotel’s digital eco-system included features such as online and mobile check in, in hotel payment, a digital key solution, digital F&B services and guest relations via Whatsapp throughout the stay.
In addition, Zaher has over 25 years experience in technology management, and he has worked in several leadership roles within the hospitality industry managing complex new hotel openings and projects.
Elizabeth Ludovici, SVP digital and technology services Northern Europe, said: “We are delighted to announce Cristina and Adel’s new roles within Accor. The integration of tech developments which complement the spirit of hospitality is a key priority for the business.
“Technology is part of our daily lives and is now fully part of our hotel experience, however the memorable moments that come from human interactions will never be replaced in our hotels. Our digital strategy balances the incorporation of technology that supports and empowers staff while offering guests the opportunity to adapt their hotel experience according to their preferences.”
