Highgate appoints chief commercial officer to lead European strategy

Highgate has announced the appointment of Siim Karu as its new chief commercial officer. In his new role, Karu will be responsible for leading the European commercial strategy across revenue management, sales, distribution, marketing, technology and performance optimization.

“I am thrilled and honored to join Highgate at such an exciting moment in the company’s European growth journey,” said Karu. “With its exceptional people, strong market presence, and ambitious vision, Highgate is poised for continued success and meaningful expansion across the region. I look forward to working alongside this talented team to build on the company’s momentum and help deliver its next chapter of growth.”

Karu brings more than 15 years of hospitality and leadership experience. He joins Highgate following four years with Generator and Freehand Hotels, where he also served as chief commercial officer. Prior to this, he held executive leadership positions with a&o Hostels and senior commercial roles with Penta Hotels and Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts.

As chief commercial officer at Highgate, Karu will partner closely with operational, investment and asset management teams to strengthen the company’s European commercial platform, enhance portfolio performance and support the continued expansion of Highgate’s hospitality platform across Europe.

“As we continue to grow and diversify our European platform, the alignment between operations and commercial strategy becomes increasingly important,” said Ben Thomas, chief operating officer, Europe. “Siim brings an exceptional combination of commercial leadership, analytical rigor, and technological expertise. His ability to build strong partnerships across disciplines and translate strategy into measurable performance outcomes will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our capabilities, drive long-term value, and position Highgate Europe for its next phase of growth.”

Highgate is a real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management. Its portfolio includes assets across the United States, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, while its capabilities extend across multiple verticals, including hospitality, senior housing, multifamily, short-term rentals, as well as investments in real estate-linked securities, technology platforms and operating businesses.