Meet Valeriya Starovoytova
Revenue Manager Multi-Hotels at Accor, Member of the HSMAI Europe Rising Leaders Council (France)
Tell us about your journey in hospitality so far – what drew you to the industry and keeps you passionate about it today?
It has been close to 10 years since my journey in hospitality began, starting with operational roles where I learned firsthand what creates exceptional guest experiences. Over time, my passion for numbers, analytics, and strategy led me to transition into revenue management. I’ve always enjoyed understanding trends, making data-driven decisions, and shaping commercial strategy, so this path felt natural. Alongside that, my love for travel continues to inspire me. Every day offers the opportunity to learn, innovate, and contribute to the company’s commercial success.
What motivated you to join the HSMAI Europe Rising Leaders Council, and how has working alongside peers from other companies helped you expand your network and develop new perspectives?
I joined the HSMAI Europe Rising Leaders Council to engage with fellow professionals, share ideas, and stay at the forefront of industry trends. Working alongside peers from other companies has broadened my perspective, exposed me to diverse strategies and best practices, and helped me build a strong, supportive network across the hospitality sector. It’s been invaluable for learning, collaboration, and professional growth.
Connecting Future Leaders (CFL) events are an important part of HSMAI Europe; what’s been your most memorable takeaway or moment from one of these events?
I haven’t had the opportunity to attend a Connecting Future Leaders event yet, but I’m looking forward to participating in upcoming events. I’m excited about the chance to engage with industry peers and mentors and hear diverse perspectives on challenges and strategies in hospitality.
What excites you most about the future of hospitality, and how do you see yourself contributing to that future?
What excites me most about the future of hospitality is how resilient and adaptive the industry continues to be. Travel remains a priority even in challenging times, as we saw during COVID, and I’m eager to see how the industry evolves amid constant changes in the global political and economic landscape. I see myself contributing by leveraging my expertise in revenue management, analytics, and strategy to help companies navigate these shifts, optimize profitability, and seize opportunities in emerging markets while embracing innovations like AI and new technologies.
For young hotel and travel professionals who might be thinking, “Is this for me?” – what would you say to encourage them to get involved?
I would encourage them to get involved because it’s a unique opportunity to build connections and expand your professional network while fostering personal and professional growth. Engaging with peers and mentors can open new perspectives, inspire you, and help bring out the best in yourself. It’s also a chance to learn continuously and stay ahead of trends in a rapidly evolving sector, setting a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in hospitality.
Quick-fire round (one-line answers only):
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received at HSMAI Europe events?
Change is the only constant – learn, evolve, and thrive.
What’s one skill every young leader should develop?
Strategic thinking paired with emotional intelligence.
Name a hospitality trend that excites you right now.
The use of AI and data-driven personalization
How would you describe the greatest benefit of HSMAI Europe in just one line?
Connecting talent, ideas, and opportunities in one powerful network.






















