Last month, the hotel world was shaken to its core when TFE Hotels announced the resignation of their CEO and industry powerhouse, Rachel Argaman.
Allan Vidor, Chairman of TFE Hotels announced Argaman would be pursuing “a new opportunity outside of the hotel and hospitality industry.”
We caught up with Argaman to find out what she learned during her time at TFE and see what’s next for the hospitality legend.
“I’ve had 20 wonderful, challenging, meaningful years at TFE Hotels and I have loved them all. We have introduced new brands, put our guests at the heart of our organisation and expanded into new countries,” Argaman said.
“However, as I approached my 20-year milestone I knew that it was time for another adventure, to go and do something new.”
Argaman told us that after a period of reflection, she recieved a phone call regarding a new opportunity and was open to explore it.
“I am going to join Opal Aged Care as CEO. Opal has 71 Aged Care Residences and 29 in the pipeline.”
“The Aged Care industry has the challenge of reimagining aged care in a more truly “home” like design and service model.”
“While there is a huge amount to do and learn, the prospect of making a difference in caring for our elders is my ‘why’ and the reason I have decided to leave TFE after 20 years.”
Though she said her new role does not signify a departure from hospitality, but her entrance into a different sector of the same industry.
“I believe that going to an industry in which the customer experience (residents and families) needs to be front and centre stage keeps me squarely in a service and customer-centric space.”
“Everyone deserves to live with dignity, respect and relevance, and therefore, the customer experience is paramount.”
In the meantime, Argaman will remain in her role as CEO until the end of July and TFE Chairman, Allan Vidor will take an oversight role during the transition period until a replacement is appointed.
During her tenure, TFE Hotels has grown from its beginnings as a serviced apartment operator to a multi-brand hotel group in multiple locations in Australia, New Zealand and Europe.
As a member of Chief Executive Women, Argaman has also been an advocate of women in leadership roles across the industry and particularly within TOGA.
Last year, TFE even took out the Women in Travel Employer of the Year title.
“It has been an outstanding adventure. I believe that I have added value during my time here and am proud of my legacy to TFE Hotels’ relationships, performance, culture and growth.”
“I have learned so much from so many of the terrific people in the Travel Industry, and from my experiences of having worked with an incredible, passionate and intelligent team in creating and managing new brands, taking our business overseas, participating in a Joint Venture, taking over two hotel groups (Travelodge and Rendezvous Hotels in ANZ).”
“And most importantly, knowing that business is built on relationships and that people do business with people they like.”
“I know that it is human connection that matters, that focus is transformational, and that together, a committed group of engaged people can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
