Stephanie Lopesi Named Regional HR Head To Support Hilton’s Tourism Growth

Published on December 1, 2025

In a significant move to bolster its workforce and enhance its position in the hospitality and tourism industry, Hilton has appointed Stephanie Lopesi as the new Regional Head of Human Resources for Hilton Australasia. This strategic leadership decision comes on the back of Hilton’s recent recognition as the #1 World’s Best Workplace for 2025.

Lopesi brings over 15 years of experience in human resources, with a strong track record of successfully implementing transformative people strategies across prominent hospitality brands. Hilton’s ongoing commitment to an exceptional workplace culture is pivotal, especially as the company continues to expand its operations in Australasia.

Driving Growth in the Tourism Sector

As Hilton expands its footprint across the Australasian region, the company remains focused on fostering a supportive environment for its team members, crucial for the sustainable growth of its operations. With 47 hotels across six brands in the region, and a pipeline of 11 projects underway, Hilton is poised to play a major role in boosting the tourism sector. Key upcoming openings, such as Hilton Garden Inn Suva, Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa, and Waldorf Astoria Sydney, will not only enhance the brand’s offerings but also contribute to job creation and local tourism growth.

The tourism industry in Australasia has experienced a resurgence, particularly in light of the global recovery from the pandemic, and Hilton’s ongoing investment in its people plays a crucial role in this recovery. By appointing a seasoned HR leader, the company aims to ensure that its team members continue to feel supported, valued, and equipped to deliver exceptional experiences to guests.

Sustaining Hilton’s Exceptional Workplace Culture

The appointment of Stephanie Lopesi underscores Hilton’s unwavering dedication to building a culture where employees are encouraged to grow both professionally and personally. This focus is especially critical as the company looks to align its internal values with its expanding regional operations. Hilton’s commitment to a positive workplace culture, coupled with Lopesi’s expertise, will ensure that the company maintains its reputation as a great place to work while driving sustainable growth in the tourism sector.

Hilton’s emphasis on career development opportunities for its employees is integral to its broader tourism strategy. As the company scales its presence across Australasia, it remains focused on nurturing talent that will support the delivery of world-class service, thereby contributing to the region’s tourism appeal.

A Strategic Approach to Inclusion and Equality

Hilton’s appointment of Lopesi also aligns with the company’s broader vision of promoting workplace equality, accessibility, and inclusion. As the hospitality and tourism industries continue to evolve, Hilton recognises the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Lopesi’s leadership will play a key role in reinforcing these values across Australasia, helping to ensure that all team members feel a sense of belonging in their workplace.

This initiative is in line with the growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion within the tourism and hospitality sectors, with numerous studies showing that diverse teams contribute to improved customer experiences and enhanced business outcomes. By prioritising an inclusive workplace, Hilton seeks to ensure that its employees reflect the diverse communities it serves, further strengthening its competitive position in the rapidly expanding tourism market.

Expanding Hilton’s Regional Presence

As Hilton prepares for multiple hotel openings, the company’s strategic focus is on growing its regional presence while continuing to invest in the development of its team. The expansion of Hilton’s portfolio across Australasia is expected to create thousands of new jobs, not just within Hilton but also within local communities, enhancing the tourism infrastructure in key markets such as Fiji, Queensland, and New Zealand.

Hilton’s growing presence will help strengthen the tourism infrastructure in these regions, offering travellers new options for accommodation while driving economic growth through job creation. With Lopesi’s appointment, Hilton is set to build on its strong foundation of employee engagement and continue fostering the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Overview

Hilton’s commitment to its workforce, highlighted by the appointment of Stephanie Lopesi, is a reflection of the company’s long-term vision to strengthen its position in the tourism sector across Australasia. By prioritising its team’s development, Hilton is ensuring that its employees remain empowered to deliver exceptional service that enhances the guest experience. As the company continues to expand, it remains steadfast in its dedication to supporting tourism growth and building a sustainable future for the hospitality industry.