The Voices of Travel - Olivier Cohn - CEO Best Western France

For the inaugural episode of the 'Les Voix du Voyage' podcast, we were delighted to welcome an iconic figure in the tourism and hospitality sector: Olivier Cohn, General Manager of Best Western France. In this episode hosted by Eddy Mimoun, Olivier Cohn openly discusses his career journey, his vision of leadership, the evolving hospitality industry, and the key issues concerning customer experience. A candid and authentic discussion, shedding light on the challenges faced by travel industry professionals in an increasingly digitalized world.

7.7.2026

Voices of Travel: Olivier Cohn Shares His Vision for the Future of Hospitality

A Leader at the Forefront of Hospitality Industry Transformations

Having led Best Western France for over 15 years, Olivier Cohn now oversees one of the most significant hotel networks in the French market.

Throughout the conversation, he offers insights into his daily role as a leader, covering strategic vision, support for independent hoteliers, innovation, performance, and on-the-ground proximity.

However, beyond the business challenges, this episode primarily addresses a strong conviction:

“Technology must eliminate friction to restore the human element to its rightful place.”

A particularly inspiring vision at a time when AI, data, and automation are reshaping the traveler experience.

What You'll Discover in This Episode

For over 30 minutes, Olivier Cohn notably discusses:

  • his background in digital and his arrival at Best Western France;
  • how he stays connected to the expectations of guests and hoteliers;
  • the balance between technology and human connection in the customer experience;
  • the impact of artificial intelligence and data in the hospitality industry;
  • the new expectations of travelers;
  • the importance of training and supporting teams;
  • his vision of management and the role of a leader today.

An insightful episode for all professionals in tourism, hospitality, and customer relations.

A modern vision of hospitality

What particularly stands out from this discussion is Olivier Cohn's ability to reconcile technological innovation and excellence in customer relations.

In a world where travelers seek fluidity, personalization, and authenticity, the challenge is no longer just about being digital.

The challenge is to create more human experiences through technology.

At Best Western France, this translates into:

  • strong investments in digital and data;
  • a constant focus on customer satisfaction;
  • on-the-ground support for hoteliers;
  • a culture of continuous improvement;
  • and a strong desire to preserve the human DNA of hospitality.

Why listen to this episode?

Whether you are a hotelier, a tourism professional, a customer relations specialist, or simply passionate about the industry's transformations, this episode offers a concrete and inspiring perspective on the changes in hospitality.

It's also an opportunity to discover the inner workings of a major hotel group and the vision of a leader who places people at the heart of their strategy.

About The Les Voix du Voyage podcast

Les Voix du Voyage is the podcast produced by HDB Solutions that gives a voice to those who shape the traveler experience.

Through sincere and dynamic conversations, the podcast explores major trends in tourism, hospitality, and customer relations.

Each episode highlights inspiring journeys, visions, and experiences for industry professionals.

Listen to the episode with Olivier Cohn

🎧 The episode is available on YouTube and major listening platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Deezer, Amazon Music…

👉 Listen to the full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdj0nnL3mDE

Want to follow future episodes?

Follow Les Voix du Voyage on LinkedIn, YouTube, and podcast platforms to discover new conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts who are transforming the traveler experience.

Happy listening!