Accor Announces Hospitality Appointment of Laurent Choain as Global Chief People & Culture Officer

Accor Announces Hospitality Appointment of Laurent Choain as Global Chief People & Culture Officer

Accor has announced a key hospitality appointment with the naming of Laurent Choain as Global Chief People & Culture Officer, effective April 1, 2026. In this role, Choain will join the Group Management Board and will also serve on the Premium, Midscale & Economy Executive Committee, strengthening the company’s leadership in talent development and corporate culture.

The appointment reflects Accor’s continued commitment to building a strong people-first culture across its global hospitality ecosystem, which spans thousands of hotels and brands worldwide.

A Strategic Hospitality Appointment for Accor’s Global Talent Agenda

In his new role, Choain will oversee Accor’s global people and culture strategy, guiding initiatives focused on leadership development, talent attraction, employee engagement, and organizational culture.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the company aims to reinforce its reputation as an employer of choice by fostering an environment that supports innovation, professional growth, and operational excellence across its worldwide portfolio.

Accor’s Chairman and CEO Sébastien Bazin welcomed the appointment, highlighting Choain’s expertise in talent development and organizational leadership.

“We are thrilled to welcome Laurent to Accor,” said Bazin. “His proven track record in nurturing talent and shaping strong corporate cultures aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. We are confident his leadership will be instrumental as we continue to cultivate an environment of excellence and innovation.”

Experience Behind This Hospitality Appointment

Laurent Choain brings more than 30 years of international human resources leadership experience to the role, with a career spanning multiple industries and global organizations.

Prior to joining Accor, he held senior leadership positions at Forvis Mazars, where he led global talent initiatives, as well as at Groupe Caisse d’Epargne (now BPCE). Earlier in his career, he also gained experience within the hospitality sector through leadership roles at Kempinski Hotels & Resorts, further strengthening his understanding of the global hotel industry.

Choain is also widely recognized for his expertise in corporate universities and executive education, having designed and led leadership development programs in partnership with leading academic institutions and global corporations.

His academic background reflects his commitment to leadership and management education. He holds a PhD in Management Sciences from Université Paris Panthéon Assas, along with master’s degrees from Paris Panthéon Sorbonne and NEOMA Business School.

Beyond his corporate career, he contributes actively to the international business and management community through governance and advisory roles with organizations such as:

• EFMD (European Foundation for Management Development)

• Bologna Business School

• The Peter Drucker Society of Europe

• Festival de Ramatuelle

  
  

Leadership Vision for Accor’s Global Workforce

As Accor continues to expand its global hospitality portfolio, Choain will play a key role in shaping the company’s long-term talent agenda.

His focus will include strengthening leadership pipelines, attracting high-performing professionals, and supporting continuous development opportunities for employees across the group’s global operations.

The appointment comes at a time when hospitality companies are increasingly investing in workplace culture, diversity, and leadership development as critical drivers of long-term competitiveness and innovation.

Through this new hospitality appointment, Accor aims to further reinforce its people-first philosophy while supporting the continued evolution of its global hospitality ecosystem.

About Accor

Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,800 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry’s most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. ALL Accor, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor’s mission is reflected in the Group’s purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France.