HotelBrain embodies the very best of Greek hospitality: luxurious resorts, charming boutique hotels and welcoming family retreats. President and Founder Panos Paleologos discusses his passion for tourism in an evolving business landscape.

Q: What sparked the creation of HotelBrain?
When I founded the company, I started from scratch, driven by my passion for tourism and the awareness of a significant market gap. With the rise of the internet, the business landscape shifted dramatically, and I saw that families could no longer manage their properties effectively.

Q: How would you describe HotelBrain’s approach to business?
Our philosophy is that each hotel is unique, with its own story to tell. While not every hotel fits every traveller, we believe that every hotel has its place in the market and deserves to be managed with respect and dignity. This allows us to focus on multiple types of hotels.

Q: How do you aim to be perceived in the industry?
For international investors, we aim to be the appropriate and fitting entry point in the region. Every market has its own nuances, and we offer a deep understanding of these dynamics. For hotel owners, we position ourselves as a tailored partner, offering bespoke solutions that align with their specific needs. Whether it’s leasing a property or collaborating with families to create and implement a strategic business plan, we provide comprehensive and customised management solutions.

Q: What about travellers?
For travellers, HotelBrain aims to represent authentic Greek hospitality. Our approach is rooted in delivering a unique and genuine experience, where each hotel stands out for its individual character. We aim to offer an experience where professional management meets the warmth of true Greek hospitality.

Q: What is HotelBrain’s appeal to investors?
We are the leading property management company in Greece; we manage the largest portfolio of rooms and beds. As one of the few operators in Southeastern Europe offering both management and investment opportunities, we are well-positioned to support investors across a range of needs. Beyond the tangible aspects, we place great emphasis on the intangible factors – trust being the cornerstone of our relationships. We believe that long-term partnerships are built on trust, and this is the foundation of our approach. 

Q: What opportunities exist for German investors?
Tourism in Greece has proven to be resilient over the years, and the sector continues to grow. We are well-positioned to meet the diverse needs of all travellers, from different properties and destinations to varying tastes and preferences. Given this, there are significant opportunities for German investors to explore and become partners in the thriving Greek tourism industry.

Q: What factors influence HotelBrain’s success?
We consistently focus on the professional aspects of hotel management, centralising functions like accounting, marketing and sales – areas that don’t always directly influence the guest experience but are essential for ensuring smooth operations. Creating a distinct product for each hotel is both a challenge and an opportunity. We strive to deliver the best possible results for each property while ensuring that the service we provide to guests remains honest, pure and authentic. Preserving the unique character and identity of each hotel is a priority for us, as we believe this is key to delivering memorable guest experiences.

Q: What led you to establish HotelBrain Academy?
We view HotelBrain Academy as a vital part of our business, because while assets are essential, the human factor is what truly drives success. Early in my career, I realised that maintaining standards accounts for 50% of the results, while the other half hinges on the human relationships we build with our guests. The right attitude from hotel staff is critical, as guests need to feel that the people serving them enjoy what they do. The best way to share this knowledge and attitude is through education.

Q: What is the Academy’s primary goal?
At HotelBrain Academy, we emphasise that maintaining high standards is foundational, while also celebrating the unique experiences each hotel offers. Through the Academy, we aim to show that tourism is a rewarding career path and that the right attitude can help individuals rise within the industry. HotelBrain Academy aims to bring together individuals from across the industry, provide them with job opportunities and help them accelerate their career development.

Q: How do you practice sustainability?  
ESG should not just be a buzzword or a trend. For me, ESG is essential because our industry directly impacts the environment and it is our responsibility to take care of it. With 36 destinations across Greece, we understand the importance of supporting local communities. Hotels do not simply provide lodging; we offer a destination, and the bond between the hotel and the local community should always be strong. We are just one part of the guest’s experience, and it is vital that we contribute positively to the environment and society. 

Q: How have your experiences contributed to your leadership style? 
Growing up in Greece and having the opportunity to travel abroad opened my eyes to the fact that Greece is just a small part of the global tourism market. Hospitality is all about embracing diverse cultures and tastes. My journey also taught me the importance of professionalism and preparation. While Greeks are known for their spontaneity, we achieve remarkable results when we combine this with professional discipline.

Q: What sets Greece apart as an investment destination? 
Greece’s strategic location is a key advantage. We sit at the crossroads of Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, offering a rich blend of cultural and geographical diversity – and a highly educated, multilingual young workforce. Each investment from abroad is a testament to the trust in our country, its people and the Greek economy.