VRWS Leadership Interview of the Day
In approaching the 10th edition of the Vacation Rental World Summit, we’re releasing a series of interviews to leaders, key players and highly motivated people in our industry whose companies make a deep impact in our space and will be present at VRWS.
The aim is to get you some insight into these leaders and the company they founded, manage or work for, as well as getting some behind the scenes on their thinking, their motivation and their drive.
ENRIQUE PLANAS
Describe your career in the vacation rental industry and how you reached your current position in the company.
Since joining Holidu in 2018, I have witnessed and participated in a transformative journey within the vacation rental industry. Starting as a Business Development Manager, I played a pivotal role in fortifying our inventory in the Spanish and Portuguese markets. Recognizing the potential for further growth in our core European markets, we expanded by forming the southern European team, which I had the privilege of leading. This team rapidly stood out for its exponential growth, attributed to our collective spirit, innovative use of gamification, high engagement, and a strong sense of ownership. These elements not only elevated our team but also positioned its members as acknowledged industry specialists. Reflecting on this journey, I’m now honored to serve as the Head of Business Development for all European markets, leading a stellar team of over 15 professionals. Our shared vision: helping to position Holidu as Europe’s premier vacation rental company.
In your opinion, what are the main current challenges in the vacation rental industry, and how do you think your company can help overcome them?
The vacation rental industry has evolved immensely in the past five years, with a pronounced emphasis on sustainability, tech integration, and a transition towards more professional operations that seemingly intertwine with the hotel industry’s tenets. Addressing these shifts, Holidu pioneered sustainable initiatives, launching our distinguished “Eco Badge” in 2021. This accolade is conferred to properties epitomizing eco-conscious practices, ranging from water conservation measures to solar panel installations. Concurrently, in the technology realm, Holidu has revolutionized user experience. By refining our algorithm, we ensure our users are met with the most pertinent search results. Furthermore, our adoption of Artificial Intelligence has significantly enhanced the quality of our listings
What are your expectations for the 2023 edition of VRWS in Barcelona, and what makes you particularly interested in attending this specific edition?
Barcelona, with its enchanting landscapes and rich history, serves as the perfect backdrop for VRWS 2023. My fervor for this event stems from the prospect of connecting with industry stalwarts, property managers, and professionals who are the linchpins of the vacation rental industry. Having witnessed VRWS’s grandeur in previous years, my anticipation this year is heightened with Holidu’s unveiling of its revamped branding. This fresh identity, encapsulating new logos, invigorating colors, and a renewed market strategy, underpins our commitment to reliability and quality. I’m eager to witness the industry’s reception to our transformation.
Could you provide a brief preview of what attendees can expect from your participation during the Vacation Rental World Summit?
Attendees can eagerly anticipate insights into Holidu’s transformative journey and our groundbreaking initiatives, especially our fresh branding and new corporate strategy. While the specifics of my engagement are still under wraps, there’s a tantalizing possibility I might be part of a panel. Our focus will be on showcasing the essence of Holidu – its commitment to quality, reliability, and fostering a seamless experience for users in the vacation rental landscape.
You’ll have the opportunity to meet Enrique directly at VRWS in Barcelona
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