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.

SIMON LEHMANN
Describe your career in the vacation rental industry and how you reached your current position in the company.
I have had the good fortune to be involved in the vacation rental industry for over two decades. My career journey began at the operational level where I learned the complexities of managing vacation rentals. Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of roles that allowed me to gain valuable experience in sales, marketing, and strategic management. Before creating AJL Atelier, I co-founded Phocuswright in 2016, the leading research company in the travel industry. Now, as AJLās CEO, I utilize my accumulated experience and knowledge to drive our company’s strategic direction, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of industry innovation.Ā
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 is currently grappling with several challenges, including regulatory changes, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations. At AJL Atelier, we are committed to helping our clients navigate these complexities. We provide comprehensive consulting services that are specifically tailored to the vacation rental industry. We are confident that our data-driven insights, industry expertise, and innovative strategies can help businesses overcome their challenges and thrive in the competitive landscape.
What are your expectations for the 2023 edition of VRWS in Barcelona, and what makes you particularly interested in attending this specific edition?
I am looking forward to the 2023 edition of VRWS in Barcelona. This event is always an incredible opportunity to connect with industry colleagues, engage in insightful discussions, and gain fresh perspectives on our rapidly evolving sector. This year, I am particularly interested in understanding how businesses have adapted to the post-pandemic environment and what new trends and innovations are shaping the future of the vacation rental industry.Ā
Could you provide a brief preview of what attendees can expect from your participation during the Vacation Rental World Summit?
As part of AJL Atelier’s participation in the Vacation Rental World Summit, attendees can expect enlightening discussions and insights on the industry’s latest trends and challenges. I will be sharing key strategies for success in today’s complex environment, including how to navigate regulatory changes, leverage technology effectively, and meet evolving customer expectations. Our aim is to provide attendees with actionable insights they can implement in their own businesses to drive growth and success.Ā
Youāll have the opportunity to meet Simon directly at VRWS in Barcelona
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