Setting The PACE - With Tim Davis

As the hospitality industry faces a confluence of rising operational costs, shifting consumer expectations, and growing OTA dependency, how can hotels use data and personalisation to protect profitability and rebuild direct guest relationships? In this episode of Setting the PACE, Tim Davis speaks with Bryson Koehler, CEO of Revinate, to explore how hotels can move beyond broad segmentation towards truly one-to-one marketing, and why the stakes for doing so have never been higher. Bryson shares insights on Revinate's evolution from a guest feedback platform to a direct booking powerhouse driving over $5 billion in annual revenue for hotels worldwide, and what it takes to build a 360-degree view of the guest that powers personalisation across every channel. The conversation examines the structural shifts redefining hotel economics post-COVID, from cost inflation to OTA commissions, and why simply waiting for conditions to revert is no longer a viable strategy. Bryson also offers a candid assessment of where the hotel industry sits on the marketing maturity curve, the mounting pressure on traditional loyalty programmes, and how AI can augment rather than replace the human connections that lie at the heart of hospitality. Drawing on experience at IHG, IBM, The Weather Company and Equifax, he brings a distinctly data-led lens to some of the industry's most pressing commercial challenges.

As hospitality grapples with fragmented systems, rising operational complexity, and rapidly evolving guest expectations, what technology foundations are needed to enable truly connected, experience-led travel? In this episode of Setting the PACE, Tim Davis speaks with Paco Pérez-Lozao Rüter, President of Hospitality at Amadeus, to explore how the industry can move beyond isolated “tech islands” towards cloud-based, data-centric ecosystems that support personalisation and digital merchandising at scale. Paco shares insights on the shift from transaction-centric models to traveller-centric journeys, the importance of unified data architecture, and how next-generation core platforms are enabling new use cases across distribution, operations and guest engagement. The conversation examines the realities of technology adoption in hospitality, the balance between building, partnering and acquiring capabilities, and how AI-driven models could reshape how travel is discovered, planned and booked. Paco also provides a global market perspective, discussing regional growth trends, changing traveller behaviour and what distinguishes industry leaders from those struggling to keep pace.

As hotels accelerate their digital transformation journeys in an era of rapidly evolving guest expectations and operational demands, what are the critical technology foundations required to innovate at scale? In this episode of Setting the PACE, Tim Davis speaks with Michael Leidinger, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Hilton, to explore the strategic imperatives behind one of the industry's most ambitious technology transformations. Michael shares insights on Hilton's transition to cloud-based infrastructure, the shift from legacy systems to API-driven architecture, and the practical implications of AI for both guest experience and operational efficiency. The conversation examines the build versus buy dilemma, the importance of data architecture in enabling personalisation, and how privacy regulations are reshaping technology decisions. Michael also offers candid perspectives on the challenges of prioritising technology investments across a global portfolio.

As hotels navigate unprecedented changes in guest expectations and technology capabilities, how should revenue management evolve to stay ahead? In this episode of Setting the PACE, Tim Davis speaks with Klaus Kohlmayr, Chief Development Officer at IDeaS Revenue Solutions, to explore the future of pricing and commercial strategy. Klaus shares his perspective on the shift towards personalization and merchandising, the role of AI in decision-making, and why legacy systems need modernisation. The conversation examines how revenue managers can expand their influence, the challenges of data integration, and why alternative accommodations are reshaping traditional strategies. Klaus also reflects on balancing technology innovation with the human element of hospitality.

In today's crowded hotel brand market, with rapid technology innovation reshaping guest expectations, how can hospitality companies sharpen their competitive edge? In this episode of Setting the PACE, Tim Davis speaks with Chris Silcock, President of Global Brands and Commercial Services at Hilton, to explore the strategic imperatives facing the industry. Chris shares his views on the evolving role of loyalty programmes, the forces reshaping consumer behaviour, and how technology and AI are transforming hospitality. The conversation examines Hilton's approach to navigating an increasingly competitive landscape and managing a diverse brand portfolio across global markets. Chris also offers practical advice for those entering the industry. https://pacedimensions.com/

How can travel brands harness technology and consumer trends? In a rapidly evolving travel and hospitality landscape, understanding the forces at play is crucial. We often seek insights to navigate these changes, but it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. While technology and consumer trends are reshaping the industry, the challenge lies in leveraging these shifts effectively.    So, what needs to happen to ensure these insights drive real transformation? And how can they provide more meaning and direction to our strategies? Join Tim Davis as he explores these questions with Ailish English, Industry Head of Travel at Google, in this episode of Setting the PACE.   Tune in to discover the impact of AI on consumer behaviour, the evolving nature of brand loyalty, and how data can be a game-changer for the industry.   https://pacedimensions.com/

In today's competitive hospitality market, distinguishing your brand is more important than ever. We often look for strategies to stand out, but the challenge is maintaining authenticity while adapting to change. As consumer expectations evolve and sustainability becomes a talking point, how can brands ensure they remain relevant and well-admired? Join Tim Davis as he delves into these topics with Alex Schellenberger, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, in this episode of Setting the PACE. Tune in to explore the nuances of brand differentiation, the role of sustainability in luxury hospitality, and the future of guest experiences.   https://pacedimensions.com/

In a rapidly evolving travel and hospitality landscape, understanding the forces at play is crucial. We often seek insights to navigate these changes, but it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. While technology and consumer trends are reshaping the industry, the challenge lies in leveraging these shifts effectively. So, what needs to happen to ensure these insights drive real transformation? And how can they provide more meaning and direction to our strategies? Join Tim Davis as he explores these questions with Shane O'Flaherty, Global Director of Travel, Transportation, and Hospitality at Microsoft, in this episode of Setting the PACE. Tune in to discover the impact of AI on consumer behavior, the evolving nature of brand loyalty, and how data can be a game-changer for the industry. https://pacedimensions.com/ 

Host Tim Davis sits down with producer Mark to help you learn and understand what Setting The PACE is all about. From topics to release date and guests, this podcast explores the latest innovations and strategies in the travel and hospitality sector. https://pacedimensions.com/

Get a taste of what to expect from Setting The PACE. With guests from huge brands like Microsoft, Google and Hilton, this podcast dives into the latest innovations and strategies in the travel and hospitality sector. https://pacedimensions.com/