Starhotels, Italy's largest privately owned hotel group, has announced two senior appointments aimed at sharpening its focus on the luxury segment and accelerating growth. Francesco Brunetti steps into the role of Deputy CEO and Asset Director, while Marco Gilardi joins as Managing Director Hospitality, effective immediately.
Brunetti, who has deep knowledge of the group's portfolio and the broader Italian hospitality landscape, will work closely with Chair and CEO Elisabetta Fabri on strategic priorities. His remit covers brand positioning, asset enhancement, and investment planning, with an emphasis on increasing the value of the group's real estate and operational assets.
Gilardi brings more than two decades of international hospitality experience, most recently at Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, where he held senior operational roles. At Starhotels, he will oversee day-to-day hospitality operations, with a focus on accelerating growth, elevating guest experience, and embedding a culture of quality across the group's properties.
“Francesco and Marco will bring their considerable experience to this new phase, adding value and strengthening our leadership team,” said Elisabetta Fabri, Chair and CEO of Starhotels. “Their combined expertise will be instrumental as we continue to grow our presence in the high-end market.”
Strategic growth and portfolio expansion
Starhotels operates 34 properties across major European and international cities, including London, Paris, and New York. The group has been steadily expanding its luxury footprint, with recent openings and renovations reinforcing its reputation for Italian-style hospitality.
The appointments come at a time when the luxury hotel sector is seeing robust demand from both leisure and business travelers. According to industry data, high-end properties in key gateway cities are outperforming the broader market, driven by strong corporate travel and affluent leisure spending.
Brunetti's focus on asset strategy is expected to support Starhotels' plans to reposition select properties and explore new investment opportunities. The group has signaled interest in expanding its portfolio in prime urban locations, particularly in Italy and other European hubs.
Gilardi's operational expertise will be crucial in standardizing service excellence across the group's diverse collection of hotels, which range from historic palazzos to modern business properties. His previous experience at Minor Hotels, which operates brands such as NH and Anantara, gives him a broad perspective on international hospitality standards.
The leadership changes also align with Starhotels' commitment to sustainable development. The group has implemented energy-efficiency programs and eco-certifications across several properties, and the new executives are expected to continue these efforts.
Industry observers note that the appointments signal a more aggressive growth strategy for Starhotels, which has traditionally been conservative in its expansion. With the luxury segment booming, the group appears poised to capitalize on opportunities in both existing and new markets.
For travel professionals, the moves could mean more options for upscale accommodations in key cities, as well as potential partnerships with agents and corporate travel programs. Starhotels' properties are already popular with business travelers, and the enhanced focus on luxury may attract a more affluent clientele.
The group's expansion plans come as other hospitality players are also investing in the high-end segment. For instance, Preferred Hotels has added 28 properties in its largest quarterly growth since 2024, indicating a broader trend of portfolio expansion in the luxury space.
Starhotels' new leadership team will be tasked with navigating a competitive landscape that includes global brands and independent luxury hotels. The group's Italian heritage and strong local presence give it a distinct advantage, particularly in markets like Milan, Rome, and Florence.
As the group moves forward, its ability to blend Italian charm with international standards will be key. The appointments of Brunetti and Gilardi are a clear signal that Starhotels is serious about competing at the highest level of hospitality.
