Nombramientos

📈 Rafael Jurado, appointed as the new director of Sidetours Incoming Services for mainland Spain and Portugal, will report directly to CEO Francisco González. With nearly 20 years at the company, Jurado has significantly contributed to Sidetours' growth and success. His new role involves overseeing commercial activities, implementing growth strategies, and strengthening client and partner relationships. Jurado's vast experience and market knowledge are expected to drive the company's future projects effectively.

📃 Yauheni Bely, an influential commercial director, played a crucial role at Hoteles Viva. He began his career at Riu Hotels & Resorts and progressed through positions at Pure Salt Luxury Hotels, Blau Hotels, Sandos Hotels & Resorts, Fergus Hotels, and Landmar Hotels. By 2021, he was part of Hoteles Viva. His passing was acknowledged on LinkedIn, reflecting his impact and connections in the hotel industry.

📦 Special Tours, part of Ávoris Corporación Empresarial, has launched over 90 programs for the 2026 season, including popular destinations like Italy, Norway, and France. Starting now, bookings include a 7% early-bird discount. Miguel Ángel García Maroto, the new director, emphasizes early planning for competitive pricing and solid bookings. In addition, new charter flight schedules after summer will increase departure points across Spain, enhancing coverage for the upcoming high season.

🌴 Luis Rullán, a prominent figure in Spanish tourism, passed away after battling cancer. He was instrumental in the success of Riu Hotels alongside Luis Riu Sr., and contributed significantly to Port Aventura and Occidental Hotels. His career highlights included roles with Riu Hotels' international expansion and aiding La Caixa's ventures. Known for his loyalty, Rullán's post-retirement saw a surprising ideological shift. He was remembered fondly by colleagues and family for his dedication and leadership.

🛫 Ángel Ayala joins Ávoris, a Barceló company, as the new Director of Operations for Mundosenior and Turismo Social. Tasked with enhancing the Imserso travel program for seniors, Ayala must address past irregularities that led to a state sanction. Previously with Viajes El Corte Inglés for nearly three years, Ayala will oversee Ávoris's management of 440,284 coastal and 210,787 escape tourism trips next season, with two possible extensions.

💬 In a recent episode of ¡Esto es la Guerra!, Ines Guerra and CEO Carlos Hornstein discuss the strategic role of HR beyond administration. Key points include adapting to local culture, leveraging preonboarding, selecting the right HR system, and HR’s role as an employee advocate. Listen to expert interviews and insights on their [blog](http://www.niikiis.com/blog) for more.

📈 Ávoris restructured Dit Gestión's leadership with María Teresa Rodríguez as commercial director in Spain and Lander Arriaga in Portugal. This move is part of a 2.5-year consolidation plan to strengthen its Iberian market presence. Rodríguez, with over 30 years in tourism, joined in 2013. Four months post-integration approval by CNMC, Ávoris added 800 sales points, keeping DIT operational autonomy while enhancing brand collaboration.

📈 Rita J. Varga, award-winning CEO of RaizUp, was honored as Women Leader of the Year – Individual Entrepreneur by the IWTTF for her contributions to travel tech and gender equity. With over ten years in the tourism sector, she founded Women in Hospitality and Travel Tech (WHTT) six years ago. RaizUp evolved from WHTT, focusing on diverse leadership development. Rita has trained over 750 people globally in the #IamRemarkable program.

🏨 Catalonia Hotels & Resorts initiated executive changes after a new majority shareholder approval. CEO Manel Vallet was replaced to professionalize leadership. Guillermo Vallet Gómez stepped down as president for honorary recognition. New CEOs are Guillermo Vallet Millet and Santiago Vallet, controlling 65% of the company with Alfonso Vallet; Manel Vallet holds 35%. The company operates 80 hotels in 25 locations and aims for €644 million revenue in 2024, with €240 million operating profit and €160 million pre-tax profit.

🛩 Las agencias de viajes españolas celebran el cambio de Ryanair, que lanzó la herramienta Travel Agent Direct, permitiendo reservas directas sin recargos. Revelado por *Preferente*, este nuevo sistema, primero de su tipo, fue discutido en una reunión que establece cuentas comerciales para agencias. Carlos Garrido, presidente de CEAV, destaca la importancia del cambio para el mercado. Acuerdos previos incluyen a El Corte Inglés y Tui.