The TEAM
Our experienced team has the expertise to give you confidence and we endeavour to earn the trust of each of our clients through a commitment to transparency, structure and a proven track record.
We understand that it takes more than just great facilities to thrive in the hotel and hospitality sector - reputation and guest experience is everything in today’s marketplace. We don’t just talk the talk, we walk the walk. All of our team have built successful careers in the hotel and hospitality industry, and it’s that experience and knowledge that’s become the foundation of our company.
SAY HELLO TO OUR TEAM
Our team has built strong working relationships with each of our partners – delivering an expert approach that yields unparalleled results, and more importantly, value.
Through knowledge, experience, and skill our team challenge the status quo, deliver results to the bottom line and re-position the hotels we manage as leaders in their marketplace.
At Brightstar Hospitality, we work in cohesion with the owners and investors of the properties we manage, to ensure a successful partnership that delivers results.
OUR TEAM
Nik’s experience spans hospitality and travel-technology. He started his career in operational roles with Oberoi Hotels, IHG and Fairmont. Nik has been an owner and franchisee of IHG, Best Western and Wyndham Hotels. Prior to Brightstar, Nik was on the Exec Team at Skyscanner. Nik is the current Chair of IHG’s UK Owners Committee.
CEO Nikhil Gupta
With over a decade of experience in real estate development, architecture, and investment banking, Mar has worked with a variety of clients, including family offices and investment funds. She holds an honors degree in Architecture and has completed advanced studies in real estate development at IE Business School. Mar’s diverse background and dedication help support the strategic growth of Brightstar in the UK and Europe.
Director of Development Mar Ogando
With diverse experience across many industries, Hayley is passionate about helping organisations grow through their people. Having previously worked for Atlas Hotels, she has a keen interest in shaping a great experience for employees within the hospitality sector. Her leadership is instrumental in shaping our workplace environment for continued success.
Director of People & Culture Hayley Pearce
Chris is an accomplished Operations Director, specialising in hotel and asset management, with extensive experience in hospitality management across top-tier establishments with brands such as Leonardo Hotels, Marriott and IHG. Chris also forms part of the development and acquisitions team, for which he is furthering his expertise in Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management at Cornell University.
Divisional Director of Operations Chris Swithenbank
Andrew Sanders is a seasoned hotelier with over 28 years’ experience in the industry. He has worked with renowned brands such as IHG, Rezidor, Novotel, Accor and Best Western, as well as large independent hotels. Andrew has led diverse hotel portfolios to impressive financial and service achievements. His expertise in revenue distribution, data-driven decision-making, procurement, and team leadership makes him a dynamic leader in the hospitality industry.
Divisional Director of Operations Andrew Sanders
Nicola Best is a distinguished Sales Director with over 25 years’ experience in the hospitality sector. She has excelled in B2B sales, working with global brands like IHG, Hilton, and Marriott. Renowned for her ability to develop high-performing teams, Nicola is passionate about people development. Her expertise in driving revenue growth, sales results and leadership has earned her a stellar reputation in the industry.
Director of Sales Nicola Best
Suzanne brings a wealth of experience in the hospitality and retail sectors, having held senior positions at a European and global level. Her strategic vision, creativity, and track record in driving growth and customer engagement have been built over 20 years in product and marketing roles. Suzanne’s passion for hotels has brought her full-circle, back to the industry she loves.
Director of Marketing Suzanne Gregory-Smith
Antje is a dynamic commercial leader with over 20 years’ experience in driving exceptional results across brands like IHG, De Vere, Travelodge, and independent hotels. She excels in navigating businesses through change, building successful teams and processes, and developing effective revenue strategies. Her innovative approach and strategic insights consistently optimise revenue, profit and performance, making her a key player in the leadership team.
Director of Revenue Antje Kurd
Our BOARD MEMBERS
Nik started his career in operational roles with Oberoi Hotels, IHG and Fairmont, moving on to hotel ownership. Prior to Brightstar, Nik was on the Exec Team at Skyscanner. Nik is the current Chair of IHG’s UK Owners Committee.
CEO Nikhil Gupta
Clive has dedicated his career to the hospitality sector, beginning at Hotel School and progressing via Crest Hotels, Europa Hotels and Barringtons. These, combined with operating his own hotels, have given him invaluable experience and industry expertise.
Chairman Clive Nicholls
A hotelier with a strong financial and corporate background and over 30 years of industry experience, during his career Nilesh has developed an expertise in corporate strategy and deal structuring, plus a high level of experience of project management.
Corporate & Legal Affairs Director Nilesh Gangadia
Mike Hurst has over 40 years accountancy experience within industry and practice, specialising in hospitality accounts. Over a ten-year period, Mike and his team have developed a state-of-the-art accounting system which gives management an up-to-date picture of performance.
Corporate Finance Director Mike Hurst