Press Release
Columbia Hospitality, the Hospitality Division of Schoeller Holdings Ltd, has announced the appointment of Areti Kontou to its executive team as Director of HR & Operations, strengthening its leadership structure and supporting the ongoing growth of the Group’s integrated hospitality operations, which include Columbia Hotels & Resorts, Columbia Restaurants, and the Columbia Hotel Academy.
With over 18 years of experience in leadership roles across some of Cyprus’ most recognized hospitality and entertainment brands, Kontou brings extensive expertise in operational excellence, strategic development, and human resources management. Her career spans five-star hotels, award-winning restaurants, large-scale event venues, and hospitality education, giving her a comprehensive perspective of an industry where success is measured not just by performance but by experience.
In her new role, Kontou will focus on shaping a dynamic corporate culture that empowers employees, promotes collaboration, and fosters continuous growth. By aligning people, culture, and operations, she aims to ensure that Columbia Hospitality teams continue to deliver high-standard services with innovation, consistency, and a passion for excellence.
Steven Kizis, Managing Director of Columbia Hospitality Division, said:
"At Columbia Hospitality, our people are at the heart of every success. Areti’s deep industry knowledge and proven leadership will further strengthen our ability to unify hotels, restaurants, and hospitality education under a shared vision of excellence. Her appointment marks an important step in our ongoing commitment to talent development and elevating the hospitality experience across all our operations."
Areti Kontou added:
"I am delighted to join the Hospitality Division of Schoeller Holdings, an organization that represents quality, innovation, and respect for its people. My goal is to help create an environment where our teams feel inspired and supported to grow, because when our people thrive, so do our customers, partners, and business."
With this addition to its executive team, Columbia Hospitality reaffirms its commitment to talent development, operational excellence, and continuous service enhancement, setting new standards for quality and innovation in Cyprus’ hospitality sector.
