"The team comes first": Thomas Pecoraro new Head of Sales DACH at a&o Hostels

Berlin - "Sales is more than just selling," is his motto and Thomas Pecoraro, the new a&o Head of Sales DACH, adds: "The team comes first." Born in Dortmund, Living in Brandenburg, he has been head of the eight-person sales department for 100 days. For 2024 he´s clearly focusing on: "Transparent communication and intensive networking." Phillip Winter, CMO, also emphasizes the development and strengthening of new source markets such as the USA and Latin America.

Pecoraro sees the increased desire to travel in one's own country and to neighboring countries less as a temporary than as a "lasting trend": "The ability to travel on your own provides flexibility and security - these are key criteria for travel in the future," the sales expert is convinced, and apply "especially for families and groups". He therefore has a particular focus on the DACH region: "Both providers and guests benefit from strong networking and an intensive exchange."

In addition to consolidating strategic partnerships, Annalia Bassi's International Sales team is also working on opening up new source markets in Europe as well as the USA and Latin America.

From the Rhine to the Spree
The 42-year-old has a wealth of experience: His career began with training as a hotel specialist at the Düsseldorf Hilton, and Thomas Pecoraro has lived and worked in Berlin and Brandenburg for almost 20 years. InterContinental, Regent and Adina Group are among his stations. Now a&o Hostels: "It is a great challenge to further strengthen and advance Europe's leading hostel group." Sustainability remains a central aspect: "With the Road to Zero program, a&o is on an exemplary path to enabling responsible travel." Less than three kilograms of CO2 per overnight stay is a&o's goal for 2025: "More and more guests are actively demanding sustainability. We are aware of our position in the travel and accommodation industry and are taking a positive approach with our sustainable strategy."

The outdoor enthusiast spends his free time hiking and kayaking, among other things