Minor Hotels’ Ramón Aragonés announces retirement, Gonzalo Aguilar to become Europe & Americas CEO

Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator, has announced the appointment of Gonzalo Aguilar as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas CEO from 1 January 2025. Aguilar will replace current CEO Ramón Aragonés, who will retire and leave his chief executive role at the end of this year. Aragonés will remain a member of its Board of Directors and serve as Non-Executive Vice Chairman. Aguilar joins Minor Hotels Europe & Americas on 1 October to  begin a three-month handover period with Aragonés.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and President of Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, said in response to Aragonés’ retirement, “Ramón has dedicated his entire career to the hotel sector. Since joining the group, then known as NH Hotel Group, in 2009, he has been instrumental in transforming it into one of the leading hospitality groups in Europe and the Americas. He has demonstrated inspirational leadership, vision and tireless dedication throughout his tenure. Today, as we celebrate his tremendous legacy, we also extend our gratitude for his exceptional contributions to Minor Hotels.”

Commenting on Aguilar’s appointment, Rajakarier said, “Gonzalo’s deep understanding of the hospitality industry and his proven leadership will be instrumental in guiding and executing Minor Hotels Europe & Americas’ strategic business plan. His invaluable insights into the multi-brand and asset-light hotel space in Europe and the Americas will set Minor Hotels on the path of continued success.” 

Aguilar brings more than 30 years of industry experience to Minor Hotels. He joins the group from Marriott, where he was Chief Operating Officer for EMEA and responsible for driving growth and record earnings in the region. Throughout his career at Marriott, Aguilar oversaw numerous milestones, including the successful integration of AC Hotels following its acquisition by Marriott. Aguilar also served as General Manager of Marriott properties throughout the Americas before moving into executive positions in Europe. He began his career at Marriott in the United States in 1994 as Restaurant Manager at the Denver Marriott Tech in Colorado.