Leire Leoz Appointed Global Chief Franchise Officer at Accor
Leire Leoz has joined Accor as Global Chief Franchise Officer for the Premium, Midscale and Economy Division, effective February 2026, marking a major leadership appointment within one of the world’s largest hospitality groups.
In her new global role, Leoz will oversee Accor’s franchise strategy across its Premium, Midscale and Economy brands, focusing on strengthening owner partnerships, driving sustainable network growth, and enhancing franchise value across diverse international markets. Her appointment reflects Accor’s continued emphasis on owner-centric models and disciplined brand expansion.
Leoz brings nearly two decades of experience across hospitality franchising, owner relations, business development and corporate strategy. Prior to joining Accor, she spent almost nine years with Marriott International, where she most recently served as Vice President, Owner & Partner Relations EMEA. In this role, she led strategic engagement with hotel owners and partners across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, supporting performance alignment, long-term partnerships and brand growth.
Earlier at Marriott, she held senior leadership roles including Vice President Franchise Owner Support EMEA and Senior Director Franchise Support, where she was responsible for franchise operations support, brand compliance, performance monitoring and communication across a large portfolio of franchised hotels.
Before Marriott, Leoz held multiple leadership positions at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, including Director Franchise Services EAME and Associate Director Franchise Support. During this period, she led franchise strategic planning, operational support, owner communications and development support, while also representing franchisee interests at a corporate level.
Her earlier career includes roles with IHG Hotels & Resorts, MCI Group, BNP Paribas, and the European Commission, providing her with a strong foundation in business development, finance, economics and stakeholder management.
Leire Leoz’s appointment underscores Accor’s focus on experienced, globally minded leadership to support franchise owners and accelerate growth across its diverse brand portfolio.
People on the Move is an initiative by Tourism Insights, a SECP-registered tourism think tank and hospitality media platform, spotlighting leadership appointments and career milestones across the global hospitality and tourism industry.
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