The global hotel industry has experienced a significant decline in senior leadership appointments over the past year, new research from executive search firm Trinity Bridge shows. Between July 2024 and June 2025, just 847 C‑suite and senior roles were filled—down 44% from the 1,504 recorded in the previous 12 months.
The study, which tracks appointments across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, found that of the 2,531 leadership hires made since July 2023:
- Only 27% (679) were women.
- A mere 0.16% of C‑suite roles were dedicated to sustainability or net‑zero agendas.
- Growth functions remained a priority, with 22% of appointments in development, sales or expansion roles.
- North America accounted for the largest share of hires (35.8%), followed by Asia (22.8%), Europe (16.5%) and the Middle East (8.4%).
- Just 4.9% of new leaders were recruited from outside the hospitality and leisure sector.
Speaking on the findings, Sam Seigler, Founder and CEO of Trinity Bridge, noted the sector’s evolving needs:
“The hospitality sector is currently undergoing a period of change and transformation. While we have seen a dip in the number of senior leadership appointments made over the last year, it is likely this will increase in the years ahead as businesses face ever‑evolving guest expectations, operational pressures, economic uncertainty and the introduction of new technologies. In turn, we’re seeing growing demand for forward‑thinking and resilient leaders, who can create a culture of accountability.”
Seigler added that the recent slowdown is likely to reverse as hotel chains embark on ambitious expansion plans, with industry forecasts suggesting a need for up to 1,000 new general managers in the luxury segment over the next five years.
“The industry is at a pivotal but exciting point, and it’s those who invest in the right leadership who will successfully shape the future of their business and the sector,” he said.
Founded in 2022 and headquartered in London, Trinity Bridge has deep expertise across hospitality, leisure and travel. The firm has recently extended its reach into Central Europe with a new office in Berlin.
