Mentorship, Leadership, and Human Connection in Hospitality

Effective leadership requires more than strategy; it demands empathy, insight, and the ability to learn from every experience.

In this episode of Behind the Standard, we speak with Gilda Perez-Alvarado, Chief Strategy Officer at Accor and CEO of Orient Express. With nearly two decades of experience guiding landmark hotel transactions and advising top investors, Gilda shares how mentorship and lessons from every encounter—successes and challenges alike—have shaped her approach to leadership.

She explores fostering collaboration across cultures, leading with purpose, and the role of human connection in driving organizational success. From professional networks like NEWH to the essential tools of curiosity, adaptability, and a sense of humor, this conversation offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating leadership, growth, and change.