Henning Matthiesen

Henning Matthiesen is an accomplished European hotelier with extensive experience in leading complex redevelopment, renovation, and repositioning projects across landmark luxury properties. With a career as a General Manager spanning more than two decades, he has built a strong reputation for delivering high-impact transformations that enhance both asset value and guest experience.

As Managing Director of Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Henning has led a multi-year, large-scale redevelopment of the historic flagship of Oetker Hotels, overseeing significant structural modernization, full-scale room and infrastructure renewal, and the integration of sustainability standards within a protected heritage environment.

Prior to this, as Managing Director at Excelsior Hotel Ernst in Cologne, he played a key role in continuous refurbishment and strategic repositioning initiatives, ensuring the long-term competitiveness of one of Germany’s most established grand hotels. His broader career includes roles as General Manager with internationally recognized luxury Hotels, where he has led hotel openings, renovations, and operational transformations across major European markets.

Matthiesen is particularly recognized for his ability to manage “live” construction environments, executing complex projects while maintaining uninterrupted luxury operations. He brings a structured, owner-focused approach, aligning stakeholders across ownership, design, and operations to deliver projects on vision, brand positioning, and financial performance.

His leadership style is defined by clarity, precision, and a strong operational mindset, combined with a deep respect for heritage. He is known for building high-performing teams, fostering accountability, and driving excellence through disciplined execution and long-term strategic thinking within the luxury hospitality sector.  Henning is fluent in French, English and his native German and is a non-executive director at RLA Global.