Independent Advisor, former CEO Raffles & Orient Express 

Stephen is recognised as a visionary hotelier, an authoritative leader, and a successful creator of international luxury brands. His ability to blend operational know-how with a profound understanding of modern, excellent hotel brands makes his approach unique.

Primarily known for his work with major global hospitality players, throughout his career Stephen has also successfully collaborated with emerging, entrepreneurially-minded brands and Private Equity firms. He is currently active in consulting, overseeing a selection of exclusive projects in Europe and the Middle East.

Previously, he served as CEO of Raffles & Orient Express and was a member of the group's Executive Committee. During his tenure, Raffles Hotels, Resorts and Residences embarked on a period of strategic growth, while the launch of the Orient Express hotels and trains was planned for 2024/25.

Having trained in Switzerland, Stephen instinctively entered the luxury hotel industry, which he has focused on throughout his career. With Starwood, he opened the St. Regis in New York and led the St. Regis and Luxury Collection brands globally. He spent nine successful years as CEO of Maybourne Hotel Group, whose flagship properties include Claridge's, The Connaught, and The Berkeley – three of London's most iconic hotels. In 2016, he was appointed CEO of The Set Collection, which operates hotels such as Hotel Café Royal in London, the Conservatorium in Amsterdam, and the Lutetia in Paris.

His intuitive approach drove him to accept the entrepreneurial challenge of creating a new brand in the luxury sector: The Dedica Anthology, launched in Milan in 2017 with a portfolio of nine properties in Italy and Europe, the sale of which was successfully completed in September 2020. The project involved the creation of a team of excellence and close collaboration with the board of directors and Private Equity investors to define the strategy, refinancing, and execute an ambitious investment programme (capex).

Stephen has served on the boards of Walpole British Luxury, London First, and Ferragamo's Lungarno Collection (Florence). In 2002, he was awarded the honorary title of “Console of Rome” for the renovation of the Grand Hotel de la Minerve, Le Grand Hotel, and the Excelsior on Via Veneto for the Jubilee of 2000.

He also collaborates with leading external consulting networks and gives speeches and lectures at hotel management schools in support of the luxury and hospitality sectors.