US: Accor-owned luxury hospitality brand onefinestay has announced the appointment of Michael Friedman as its chief operating officer – Americas.
In the newly created role, Friedman’s responsibilities will include oversight of supply and demand of all direct and indirect onefinestay accommodations across the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America, as well as local operations including overall direction of both the guest and homeowner experience. Friedman will also work closely with the strategy, development and finance and brand and marketing divisions of onefinestay to ensure “stability and profitable growth” across the Americas.
onefinestay co-CEO Ian di Tullio said: “Michael brings a wealth of experience to his new position, and we are very pleased to have him onboard. His experience and vision will be fundamental to the path forward for onefinestay in the Americas, driving continued customer growth, revenue and brand recognition.”
Friedman joins onefinestay after gaining three decades of hospitality, vacation rental and real estate experience focused on increasing revenue and drawing a substantial return on investment in the luxury market. Most recently, he was vice president North America of UK-based guest screening and booking protection service, SUPERHOG.
His previous roles include spells as co-founder and board member of Vacation Rental University, a Florida-based online academy designed to educate, train, and support the industry, and as director of franchise growth and expansion for SkyRun Vacation Rentals in Colorado.
Friedman said: “The market for luxury private rentals is quickly expanding as travellers discover the benefits of residing in welcoming accommodations and tapping tailored services and experiences as part of their stay. I look forward to enhancing onefinestay’s reputation as a market leader and exceeding expectations to deliver growth and success for the brand.
Friedman joins onefinestay as the brand prepares for a number of major launches in 2022, including that of Monthly Rentals in New York City this summer.
After launching in London in 2010, onefinestay was acquired by Accor for $168 million in 2016. The brand now provides access to approximately 5000 homes, villas and chalets to rent in 50 destinations worldwide.
