Radisson Hotel Group has appointed Sandra Kneubuhler as Managing Director for Africa, marking a significant step in the company’s growth on the continent. Based in Johannesburg, Kneubuhler will oversee the group’s operations in English-speaking African markets, continuing its expansion in a key growth region.
Kneubuhler, who joined Radisson Hotel Group in February 2019, has built a strong track record in hospitality leadership. Previously serving as Country Director of Sales and District Director for South Africa, she played a crucial role in driving Radisson’s growth, including an 11% increase in corporate revenue in her first year. Her leadership in building and expanding the Cluster Sales Team for South Africa further cemented Radisson’s position as a market leader.
In her new role, Kneubuhler will manage operations across Radisson’s English-speaking African countries. This promotion aligns with the group’s strategy to invest in local talent while expanding its footprint in Africa. Kneubuhler’s extensive experience in hospitality and her expertise in strategic revenue growth, team development, and operational excellence make her well-suited for the challenge.
Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia Pacific at Radisson, praised Kneubuhler’s leadership, noting her achievements in South Africa and expressing confidence in her ability to drive success across the continent.
Kneubuhler’s career spans more than two decades, including a notable tenure at Hyatt Hotels Corporation before joining Radisson. As Global Sales Director for Africa at Hyatt, she achieved a 30% increase in revenue by launching new global sales offices. She has also held senior leadership positions in Doha, Qatar, and South Africa, where her strategic insight and financial acumen led to significant improvements in profitability and operational performance.
Reflecting on her new role, Kneubuhler expressed her excitement about leading Radisson’s teams across Africa. “Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence resonates deeply with me,” she said. “I look forward to driving continued growth and success across our markets in Africa.”
Kneubuhler’s appointment also comes as the company ramps up its expansion plans, particularly in Nigeria. In an exclusive interview with Nomad Africa Magazine, she shared her vision for the group’s growth in the country, including plans to have 13 operating hotels and 2,000 rooms within the next five years. “We want to maintain our market leadership while diversifying our portfolio,” she stated, with several new brands such as Radisson Red and Radisson Collection set to debut soon.
Kneubuhler also discussed the company’s ongoing commitment to employee development through the launch of Radisson Academy. The initiative, which currently offers 30,000 online training programs, will expand to include a face-to-face business school in Nigeria next year.
Regarding the challenges posed by Nigeria’s current economic climate, Kneubuhler remains optimistic, noting that despite short-term challenges, Radisson’s hotels are performing well and positioned for long-term growth.
Kneubuhler stressed the importance of improved airline connectivity for boosting tourism in both South Africa and Nigeria. “The key to developing tourism is ensuring better airlift options, making these countries more accessible to international visitors,” she said.
