A structure sized to the volume of projects
Leonardo Hotels Central Europe is reshaping its development structure to keep pace with its portfolio. The group plans to add 28 new hotels in 2026, around 20 of which come from the former Revo Hospitality Group estate.
Several of these deals have already been completed in Germany in recent weeks, including the takeover of four hotels in Berlin, Düsseldorf and Dortmund, followed by that of three former Revo hotels in Munich, Hanover and Braunschweig. The reorganisation announced by Leonardo Hotels is designed to absorb this volume while preparing the next stages of growth.
Martin Stegner, a Revo and NOVUM background
Martin Stegner joins the group as Development Director and Deputy VP. He was previously Chief Development Officer of NOVUM Hospitality and then of Revo Hospitality Group.
His priorities include developing Master, the group’s serviced-apartment brand. Analysis – His arrival gives Leonardo first-hand knowledge of the Revo portfolio, at a time when a significant share of new additions comes from that estate.
Robert Ruschke promoted for Central Europe
Robert Ruschke, a member of the team since 2021, becomes Deputy Development Director Central Europe. He takes responsibility for the DACH region as well as Eastern Europe.
This territory remains strategic for the group. Germany is still its main market, with around 80 hotels out of a portfolio of more than 130, and Leonardo intends to accelerate its development in Eastern Europe.
Nordic capitals and Italy as growth drivers
For the Nordic countries, the group has recruited Bjørn Anker Gullaksen as Director of Development. His roadmap covers Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, Helsinki and Reykjavik. He will be able to proceed through both acquisitions and lease agreements.
In Italy, Niccolo’ Pravettoni has been appointed Business Development Manager. He will be tasked with expanding Leonardo’s presence in the country, which currently stands at nine hotels. The group had already strengthened its operational management in the Italian market in the spring.
France in the sights for the next phase
Leonardo Hotels is seeking a Development Manager for France, a market in which the group recently strengthened its position with the takeover of the former Hilton in Évian-les-Bains.
Looking further ahead, the group is counting on around twenty new openings in 2027. Analysis – The new structure, with dedicated leads for each major region, should enable it to integrate the assets acquired in Germany while simultaneously establishing itself in markets where Leonardo still has little or no presence.
At a glance by The Hospitality Tribune
Leonardo Hotels Central Europe scales up its development team
– 28 new hotels expected in 2026, around 20 from the former Revo portfolio
– Martin Stegner (ex-CDO NOVUM and Revo) joins as Development Director and Deputy VP, with a focus on the Master serviced-apartment brand
– Robert Ruschke promoted Deputy Development Director Central Europe (DACH and Eastern Europe)
– Bjørn Anker Gullaksen to lead Nordic growth; Niccolo’ Pravettoni to build on nine hotels in Italy
– Germany accounts for about 80 of 130+ hotels; France development manager role open; around 20 additions expected in 2027
