Arantxa Balson has been confirmed as the new chief human resources officer at hotel giant Accor.

She will also become a member of the group’s executive committee when her appointment becomes effective on May 4th.

Evelyne Chabrot, Accor’s current chief human resources officer, has decided in full agreement with the group’s senior executives, that after over forty years with Accor, she will now devote her time to personal projects in active retirement.

Chabrot will accompany this transition to ensure a smooth handover.

Referring to this appointment, Sébastien Bazin, chairman of Accor declared: “We have been working with Evelyne and the executive committee for several months to prepare this change in our organisation.

“Evelyne has played an essential role in accompanying the group’s transformation, but I would also especially like to pay tribute to her commitment, integrity, thoughtfulness and unfailing attachment to Accor.

“I know that this transition will be a very emotional one for her.

“It will also be charged with emotion for the 170,000 Accor employees who I will represent in honouring her.

“I am very happy that Arantxa has agreed to join Accor, to take up the torch and continue the work undertaken by the human resources teams.

“Her international experience, knowledge of the challenges facing an increasingly digital world, and enthusiasm, will be essential qualities in ensuring that the transformation of our group is a complete success.”

Balson is Spanish and 50 years old.