Aris Aristidou

As the current Director of Operations at Hilton Nicosia, Aris Aristidou brings over three decades of hospitality expertise, underpinned by a strong academic foundation in Hospitality Management from the United Kingdom. His career has been defined by strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a relentless commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences. Over the years, he has honed his ability to transform hotel operations, elevate service standards, and inspire teams to exceed expectations. At Hilton Nicosia, a premier business hotel, he focuses on empowering his team to deliver world-class service that blends professionalism with a warm, personalized touch, ensuring every guest interaction is memorable.

His journey in hospitality has taken him across diverse roles, each contributing to a deep understanding of the industry. Before joining Hilton, Aris served as Food & Beverage Operations Manager at Thanos Hotels & Resorts, where he oversaw complex banquet functions, led diverse teams, and consistently delivered high-quality dining experiences. This role was instrumental in shaping his attention to detail and passion for curating moments that resonate with guests long after their stay. Whether orchestrating large-scale events or enhancing day-to-day operations, he has always prioritized the fusion of creativity and precision to meet the highest standards of luxury service.

With a proven track record of optimizing operations and driving profitability, he thrives on challenges that demand a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on leadership. Overseeing all aspects of hotel management, from guest relations to team development and financial performance, he remains deeply committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Aris believes that empowering individuals is the cornerstone of organizational success, and he takes pride in mentoring and inspiring his teams to realize their full potential.

The hospitality industry’s dynamic nature and capacity to create transformative experiences have always captivated him. Having navigated the evolving landscape of luxury hotels and resorts, he understands the importance of anticipating guest needs and exceeding their expectations. This is especially critical in today’s competitive market, where personalized service and authentic experiences set the benchmark for success. His role as Director of Operations at Hilton Nicosia allows Aris to channel this expertise into crafting tailored experiences for a discerning clientele, while ensuring operational efficiency and sustainability.

As the industry continues to evolve, he remains focused on embracing innovation and leveraging his extensive experience to keep Hilton Nicosia at the forefront of hospitality excellence. Whether by enhancing the hotel’s culinary offerings, refining service delivery, or adopting cutting-edge technologies, Aris’s mission is to uphold Hilton’s legacy of quality and innovation. Looking ahead, he says he is excited to continue leading his exceptional team and contributing to the hotel’s reputation as a leading destination for business and leisure travelers in Cyprus.

With an unwavering passion for hospitality and a career dedicated to excellence, he is committed to shaping the future of Hilton Nicosia, ensuring it remains synonymous with unparalleled guest experiences and operational brilliance.

What makes Hilton Nicosia stand out from other properties you’ve worked in?
Hilton Nicosia is a unique property due to its ability to seamlessly cater to both business and leisure guests. It is not only a prominent business hub with state-of-the-art conference and meeting facilities, but it also offers a tranquil escape with its lush gardens, luxurious amenities, and exceptional dining experiences. The sense of community, the warm Cypriot hospitality, and the commitment of the team to deliver personalized service make it stand out. The balance between professional excellence and a welcoming atmosphere is truly unparalleled.

Who is your typical customer?

Our typical customer includes business professionals attending conferences or meetings, as Hilton Nicosia is well-established as a leading business hotel in the region. Additionally, we welcome leisure travelers looking to explore the rich culture and history of Nicosia or those seeking a relaxing staycation. The property also appeals to locals who frequently visit for dining, events, or wellness experiences at our health club and spa. Moreover, we aim to attract athletic and football teams, as Nicosia is an attractive destination offering excellent facilities and favorable weather conditions year-round, making it an ideal location for training and events.

If you could plan a one-day itinerary for guests looking to explore Nicosia, where would you send them?
I’d recommend starting the day with a visit to the Cyprus Museum to discover the island’s rich archaeological history. Next, explore the Old City of Nicosia with its Venetian walls, narrow streets, and the iconic Ledra Street. Be sure to visit the border and the Green Line, as Nicosia holds the unique distinction of being the last divided capital city in Europe—a poignant reminder of its complex history and cultural significance. For lunch, enjoy traditional Cypriot cuisine at a local taverna. In the afternoon, visit the Leventis Municipal Museum or cross the Green Line to experience the city’s unique cultural duality. End the day with a sunset view from the Shacolas Tower Observatory and a fine-dining experience at one of Hilton Nicosia’s restaurants.

Building the right team is crucial for a property’s success. What are the key skills you look for when hiring new employees?

When hiring, I prioritize individuals with a genuine passion for hospitality, excellent communication skills, and a strong sense of teamwork. While technical expertise is valuable, I believe that soft skills are even more critical for success in our industry. Empathy, critical thinking, and a positive attitude are key traits I look for in candidates. I value those who can connect with guests on a personal level, anticipate and exceed their expectations, and maintain a warm, welcoming demeanor—smiling at all times. Additionally, I expect individuals to provide tailored service for each guest, ensuring that every interaction feels personalized. Most importantly, I look for candidates who can consistently create the “wow” factor, delivering unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression.

What is the USP of your hotel?
Hilton Nicosia’s unique selling proposition lies in its dual appeal: being the leading business hotel in the city while offering a luxurious and serene environment for relaxation. Our state-of-the-art event spaces, combined with exceptional service, make us a top choice for conferences and weddings. Additionally, our culinary offerings, including Mediterranean and international cuisine, elevate the guest experience.

What is the one dish that guests have to try when at your hotel?
At Hilton Nicosia, guests are spoiled for choice with exceptional dishes that showcase both creativity and flavor. One must-try is our exquisite Sea Bass, delicately baked to perfection and served with a rich spinach and eel ragout, velvety celeriac purée, and a medley of seasonal vegetables. This dish is a harmonious blend of elegance and Mediterranean flair, offering a truly refined dining experience.

For those craving something heartier, our Signature Black Angus Burger is an absolute standout. Nestled in a buttery brioche bun, this gourmet burger features premium Black Angus beef, complemented by carefully selected toppings that elevate every bite to perfection.

While recipes and dish names may be similar across countries, the real difference lies in the love, attention to detail, and quality of ingredients used. At Hilton Nicosia, our chefs are passionate about their craft, infusing every dish with care and using only the finest, freshest ingredients to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

How will travel trends change in the year 2025?
Travel in 2025 will likely be shaped by a growing emphasis on sustainability, personalization, and technological innovation. Guests will increasingly seek eco-friendly tourism options that align with their values, focusing on minimizing their environmental footprint while enjoying authentic cultural and local experiences. Wellness travel will also see significant growth, as travelers prioritize physical and mental well-being through relaxing, rejuvenating, and health-focused itineraries.

Hotels will need to adapt by offering tailored and immersive experiences, emphasizing sustainable practices like energy efficiency, locally sourced ingredients, and waste reduction initiatives. Seamless technology integration will play a pivotal role, with features such as contactless check-ins, smart room controls, and AI-driven personalization enhancing convenience and comfort. The key will be creating meaningful, memorable experiences while meeting the evolving needs of the modern, conscious traveler.

Was a career in hospitality something you always dreamt of? What is your advice to aspiring hoteliers?
A career in hospitality was a natural choice for me, as I’ve always been passionate about creating memorable experiences for others and finding joy in connecting with people. My advice to aspiring hoteliers is to remain curious and resilient, as this dynamic industry is constantly evolving. Embrace every opportunity as a chance to learn, value teamwork, and always strive to exceed guest expectations.

Above all, hospitality is about caring for others and fostering genuine connections. It’s not just about winning or earning money but about giving back and creating value for guests, colleagues, and the community. By focusing on service, empathy, and meaningful contributions, aspiring hoteliers can build a fulfilling and impactful career.

Which cities are your favorites for: 1) food 2) history 3) fashion?

• Food: Greece-Greek islands– A vibrant mix of flavors, spices, and culinary traditions.
• History: Italy-Rome– Its ancient landmarks and stories are captivating.
• Fashion: France- Paris– A global hub of style and innovation.

You have worked in several cities, which is your favorite city for work and play?
Nicosia is undoubtedly my favorite. Professionally, it offers a dynamic and growing market, while personally, the blend of culture, history, and warm community makes it an enjoyable city to live and explore.

When are you happiest?

I’m happiest when I see our guests genuinely delighted by their experiences at Hilton Nicosia and when the team achieves their goals and excels in their roles. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know I’ve contributed to creating a positive impact on both our guests and our staff. My happiness is amplified when the entire team is aligned, working seamlessly together, and fostering a supportive, harmonious environment without any issues. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the power of teamwork come to life, creating exceptional moments for our guests and a positive atmosphere for everyone involved.

At work, which is your most challenging activity and why?
At work, one of the most challenging aspects is managing change effectively, whether it involves implementing new standards, introducing innovations, or responding to evolving market trends. These challenges, however, are also among the most rewarding, as they drive progress and help the hotel remain competitive.

Another significant challenge is dealing with the diverse range of characters I encounter daily—whether among staff, colleagues, or guests. Each individual comes with unique perspectives, expectations, and communication styles, making it essential to adapt and approach situations with empathy and professionalism. While it can be demanding, successfully navigating these interactions contributes to a cohesive team environment and exceptional guest experiences.