Riko van Santen

Riko is based at Kempinski's headquarters in Geneva overseeing the global IT, Distribution, and Guest Intelligence and Digital technology solutions of the group. In this position, he architects the strategic direction of the company's technology and data infrastructure, in order to optimize the delivery and integration of software applications and the exchange of data across multi-system environment for all commercial and operational enterprise solutions.

Riko joined Kempinski in 2012 as Vice President Digital Strategy and Distribution, and successfully implemented a brand wide CRM platform, launched the brand’s first responsive website and brand app, upgraded the distribution system, and conceptualized a web based business intelligence tool and guest intelligence solution with integrated online reputation and guest feedback indexing.

Prior to joining Kempinski, Riko oversaw 1,100 properties under 7 brands ranging from budget to high end luxury, as Vice President Distribution and E-Commerce at Louvre Hotels Group, based in Paris, France. Riko began his career gaining experience in the front office and revenue disciplines at the Hotel Okura Amsterdam, followed by revenue management, distribution, IT and digital marketing positions with Pegasus Solutions, NH Hotels, and Golden Tulip Hotels. Riko constantly embraces the rise of technology deployment in the hospitality industry, translating technical advances into market growth and ROI. Riko graduated with an Honours degree in Hotel Management from Middlesex University, London, and obtained a post graduate degree in Japanese Business Studies. He served as Vice President and Executive Advisor to HTNG (Hotel Technology Next Generation), a global non profit trade association serving hotel companies and technology providers. A known industry speaker, he also holds advisory board seats at Sabre Hospitality, Cvent, HSMAI Europe, and Olapic.