Spotlight on Hospitality's Future: Trends and Insights with Ivaylo Kozhuharov, HotelExperts
In Best Stay Event's exclusive interview series we dive deep into the world of hospitality and tourism.
We talked with Ivaylo Kozhuharov, a seasoned professional, to explore his remarkable journey and industry insights. From the beginning of his career at one of the largest and most renowned companies, owning and managing hotels on the Black Sea coast, Ivaylo's passion for hospitality was ignited, shaping his belief in exceptional guest experiences.
In our conversation, we uncover the significant changes he has witnessed, the influence of technology and sustainability, and the emerging trend he finds most exciting.
Ivaylo, you've had an illustrious career in the hospitality industry. As we embark on this journey together, could you take us back to the beginnings of your career? What initially drew you to the world of hospitality, and how has your personal journey shaped your perspective on the industry?
In any field, you need to have indisputable theoretical and practical knowledge, but in the world of hospitality and tourism, the desire to work with people and the attitude are at the fore.
I started my professional journey two decades ago at the hotel reception. Combining at the same time practical experience with studying tourism at the university gave me the opportunity relatively quickly to step from the Front office manager to the General manager position and subsequently other C-Level positions.
One of the main challenges that determined my choice was the opportunity to work, communicate and meet people from around the world. The social environment that the hospitality industry provides is a real privilege.
The hospitality industry has seen remarkable transformations over the years. From your perspective, what significant changes have you observed, and how have they influenced the way hotels and resorts operate today?
We went through a really challenging period that changed our perspective both as guests and hoteliers. Still, the specific situation played the role of a game changer for the hospitality industry.
The guests have become significantly more demanding, and even the well-known mass tourism should get increasingly more personalized. Digitalization processes related to guest experience and internal operations have been accelerated by three to five years.
This is an opportunity for forward-thinking hospitality professionals around the world to rethink their strategies and to be even more innovativе in the search for new tactics. The winners in this game will be those who find the balance between high-touch and high-tech experience.
The evolving landscape certainly demands adaptability and forward-thinking. As we look ahead to the future of tourism and hospitality, what emerging trend or development excites you the most, and why do you believe it will shape the industry moving forward?
The topic in regard to the need for “Digital Transformation” increasingly gives way and we started talking more and more about “Sustainable Transformation”.
Today more often digital is associated with sustainability - I would say that by implementing digital solutions you are reducing a lot of printing paper at all which is not only sustainable but time and cost-effective.
Technology is here to stay. We all need to accept that. Some people still don’t understand the technological advancements that have been accomplished over the past couple of years and that’s what concerns them the most.
Intelligent digital solutions lead to increased sales and efficiency of the service staff, which de facto gives them more time to give personal attention to each guest.
Thank you for sharing your invaluable insights with us today. Before we conclude, is there any advice you would like to give to aspiring hoteliers and industry professionals who are embarking on their own journeys?
In the end, every single hotel stay is a different experience - the hotel is like a home away from home. One of the first things I explain to new team members is the difference between a guest and a customer. The one who understands this essential element of the hospitality philosophy will be ready to achieve quicker successful professional development in the industry.
Ivaylo's inspiring journey and insights provide invaluable guidance to aspiring hoteliers and industry professionals.
With a focus on exceptional guest experiences, technological innovation, sustainability, and the transformative power of experiential travel, his wisdom is a beacon for navigating the dynamic landscape of hospitality.
As the industry evolves, Ivaylo's profound impact is sure to leave a lasting impression on those striving for success in this vibrant world of hospitality.