Meet the Team: Ioannis Hatzilazarou; H Hotels Collection Board Member & President

Have you ever wondered who are the people at H Hotels Collection that make your moments matter? Meet Ioannis Hatzilazarou, Board Member & President. Read his interview and find out more about his favourite things at H Hotels Collection.

Please present yourself to us.

I began my career in 1965, when I immigrated to Congo, at the age of 17 years old. I made my first steps in industry and commerce there, along with my siblings, but I promised to myself that I would go back to my homeland, Rhodes Island, one day. As I was aiming to expand to new markets and I was already feeling nostalgic for life in Greece, I founded the first hotel of the group in Kiotari, Rhodes, in 1993. Over the course of 30 years in the hospitality industry, I crafted the H Hotels Collection group, a family business at its core that reinvented the concept of Greek hospitality through high-quality services and focus on travellers’ needs.

Why do you love working at the H Hotels Collection?

Well… (laughs) as the founder of the group coming in to work everyday is an absolute joy. Especially since I get to work with my family. I also love to watch the group grow year by year surpassing even my greatest expectations.

Which is your favourite hotel of the H Hotels Collection?

I of course have a soft spot for Rodos Princess Beach Resort & Spa. It was my first venture as a hotelier/businessman in Greece with my brother as partner and it was truly a labour of love. However I consider Lindos Princess Beach Resort & Spa my lucky charm. Lindos Princess Beach Resort & Spa was my first solo venture, and its incredible success made the creation of all our H Hotels Collection possible.

Which is your favourite room type within the Collection?

The Junior Suite Swim Up Sea View at Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa at the annex building. It combines the sophisticated luxury and comfort of Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa, at a more relaxing location. Of course having the comfort of your own pool is always a great plus.

What is your favourite cocktail and at which bar?

A classic, but a good one – Campari orange at the Sketch Bar of Boutique 5 Hotel & Spa.

Which is your preferred restaurant of the group?

Definitely Wasabi at Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa. It offers Asian delights with the perfect view of the Aegean Sea. Of course you need to end this gastronomic experience with a glass of champagne at Oinos Wine & Champagne Bar within the mesmerising ambience that live piano music creates.

Where is your favourite spot of our hotels?

Hanami Asian Restaurant & Bar verandas at Rodos Princess Beach Resort & Spa.

How do you feel about the addition of Rhodes Bay & Elite Suites at the H Hotels Collection?

I am very proud and excited to add an iconic hotel like Rhodes Bay & Elite Suites to our portfolio. Adding a hotel close to the city of Rhodes to the group was always our plan, it was a matter of finding the perfect opportunity, and we have! Now we can offer a more diversified range of options to our collection and extend our client base.

What is the plan for the future of the group?

Our next big project is an all new 5-star family hotel in our native Kiotari. The concept for this hotel is truly original, an exciting departure from traditional hotel accommodation. I don’t want to give away too much, so watch this space and stay tuned for more.