Interview - How AI is reshaping hotel operations and service

How will artificial intelligence change hotel operations, and what does that mean for service? In this episode, Daniel Foreman is joined by Juanjo Rodríguez, Head of Marketing and Direct Booking Products at Lighthouse, to speak with Sebastian Lodder, CEO of Hotel Collection International.

Sebastian shares perspectives from operating across Spain and Georgia, working with both global brands and independent properties, and leading turnkey hotel projects in emerging markets. He explains why AI is already transforming revenue management, how roles inside hotels are shifting, and why simplifying technology may be just as important as adopting it. The conversation also explores the trade-offs between branded and independent hotels, and why personalized service may become the key differentiator as automation increases.