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 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.
Head of People & Culture HAYLEY PEARCE
Sylvain brings expertise in hotel operations and people development from leading hotel brands including Accor, IHG and Hilton. His experience ranges from budget to upscale segments, with a strong track record in the UK and Europe. He is passionate about creating innovative solutions to constantly improve both employee experience and guest satisfaction, to lead high performing businesses.
Group Director of Operations SYLVAIN LAGIER
Guy is a commercially-driven financial leader, bringing a wealth of experience from both accountancy firms and the hospitality industry. He has worked with Gleneagles Hotels, as well as international brands like Marriott, IHG, and Hilton. With a focus on helping owners and operators understand their key financial drivers, Guy is perfectly placed to enhance business performance through a collaborative approach.
Finance Director GUY KERKVLIET
Steven is a hotel leader with over 20 years’ experience, known for his expertise in combining strategic business acumen with a deep understanding of guest experience and operational excellence. His career in the hospitality industry includes Macdonald Hotels, IHG and Accor, with exceptional results in revenue growth, guest satisfaction, and team performance.
Divisional Director of Operations STEVEN HAYES
Head of Revenue & Distribution EM SUKPHANDEE
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.
Director of Development CHRIS SWITHENBANK
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.
Group Director of Sales NICOLA BEST
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.
Strategic Commercial Advisor ANTJE KURD
Ashish is a visionary leader in hospitality, with nearly 30 years’ experience with global brands including IHG, Accor, Hilton, Marriott and more. He brings expertise in both operational and strategic leadership, with a passion for innovation, exceptional service and unforgettable experiences.
Divisional Director of Operations ASHISH GUPTA
Having led multiple high-profile projects for large scale multinational blue-chip companies, Ruby brings a wealth of experience across the full marketing channel mix. With a passion for digital innovation and improving efficiency through AI, Ruby is focused on the future of marketing and delivering effective, data-driven results.
Head of Marketing RUBY SHERGILL
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