Alessandro Comel
Chief Product Officer
"My role is to source all the necessary products and to look after them. Together with my team, we ensure the Company has the right mix of directly contracted hotels, whether they are individual hotels or part of a chain, to satisfy our client's needs. The product must be competitive and available to book."
Alessandro Comel
Chief Product Officer
"My role is to source all the necessary products and to look after them. Together with my team, we ensure the Company has the right mix of directly contracted hotels, whether they are individual hotels or part of a chain, to satisfy our client's needs. The product must be competitive and available to book."
Interview with Alessandro Comel
Chief Product Officer
Where are you based? Is the place where you work strategic for the Company goals?
I am based in London although our head offices are in Italy, precisely Rome and Venice. My colleagues are based all over the world, so it makes it convenient for me to be based in the UK. Of course, it is quite strategic for the Company too because London is one of our TOP 3 selling destinations.
What do you love about your work?
Overall, I love my job! I have now been in the industry for over 30 years. I have managed to create some incredible working relationships with people from all over the world, with different backgrounds and of various cultures. Moreover, our industry is very dynamic and never shuts, always keeping you on your toes. Keeping clients and suppliers happy and increasing sales is very rewarding from a personal point of view.
Can you describe your team and the goals you share?
My team is fantastic. I must say I have been very lucky throughout my whole career as I have always had great colleagues who, no doubt, helped me grow professionally, as well as having fun, which is also a big component of everyday working life!
Right now, I work with young, dynamic, and smart people who dedicate themselves to the business and the tasks they are required to complete, always ready to help and support each other. Genuinely, a great mix of people!
Can you explain the value of technology for your job?
Of course, technology is a big deal for us and our industry. I have watched it evolve since the end of the Nineties, growing slowly at first and then faster and faster, helping us in all aspects of our business. Technology is the King and is a 'must'!
It can also be very frustrating at times but, perhaps I say that because I am old!
How can you imagine your role development in the future?
Similar to many other roles, my role will evolve using more and more technology every day to control and grow the business, but the human factor, the working relationships and interactions will still be a great deal in our industry. I predict no change in that, as the future of my role without human interaction is simply not the same!