Learn from the best

Alex Guiomar-Lopes teaches German at BHMS. Fluent in German, English, and French, he teaches German and French in other institutions and works as a translator. With a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Linguistics from the University of Zurich and currently completing a Master in Education at FHNW, Mr Guiomar-Lopes combines academic expertise with practical teaching skills.

Leveraging a strong linguistic background, Mr Guiomar-Lopes excels in making complex topics understandable and accessible to students. His dual role as a teacher and translator enriches his instructional approach, offering students a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the German language.

Dr Antoinette St Hilaire, DBA, PhD, is a distinguished academic with expertise in management, marketing, and diversity and inclusion (D&I). She holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Essex, UK, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Lincoln, UK. Her speciality lies in Neurodivergent Talent Recruitment & Employee Support.

Dr. St Hilaire serves as the director of The Diversity and Inclusion Company (DIC), headquartered in London and Zurich. Specialising in D&I strategies for business and educational environments, she provides consultancy services in HR, talent recruitment, and retention on an international scale.

Her research interests encompass ethnicity, interethnic social exchanges, relationship dissolution, and cultural minority social networks in the UK. She is a respected member of the British Sociological Association and INSNA (International Networks for Social Network Analysis), reflecting her commitment to advancing sociological research and analysis. She is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), an academic Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (MCIPD), and a Registered RQTU Assessor.

A faculty member at BHMS since 2015, Dr St Hilaire teaches the International Human Resources Management module in the MSc programme, where she imparts her knowledge and expertise to future business leaders.

Mr Arno Thony joined BHMS in 2014 and teaches Leadership in Business, Strategic Business Management, and Hospitality Trends and Analysis. With a career spanning 14 years as a lecturer at prestigious institutions both domestically and in Asia, Mr Thony has been instrumental in shaping the academic journeys of students at CAS, Bachelor's, and Master's levels.

Mr Thony's teaching philosophy is underpinned by his in-depth knowledge and passion for imparting complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner. With a focus on preparing future managers for entrepreneurial challenges, he combines theoretical insights with practical guidance to optimally support his students.

In addition to his academic endeavours, Mr Thony boasts an impressive 35 years of experience in operational management and corporate leadership within the upscale hotel industry. His extensive background includes overseeing hotel openings and managing positions with up to 500 employees, demonstrating his proactive and entrepreneurial management approach. As a board member of business associations, Mr Thony has established himself as a respected leader, known for his integrity, determination, and ability to drive sustainable change. 

He is committed to guiding aspiring leaders on their path to success, drawing from theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Mr Arturo Cuenllas joined BHMS in 2022 and teaches International Hospitality Management to our MBA students. With over 20 years of executive experience in the hospitality sector, Mr Cuenllas has led numerous teams across various countries, including Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, and France. His diverse international background enriches his teaching, offering students a global perspective on hospitality management.

An accomplished Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Book Author, Mr Cuenllas has penned “A Higher Purpose: 3 Rules of Conscious Leadership,” which underscores his commitment to fostering effective and ethical leadership. His philosophy, inspired by Bill Campbell's wisdom, "Your title makes you a manager. Your people make you a leader," reflects his belief in the transformative power of conscious leadership.

Mr Cuenllas graduated from the prestigious Glion Institute of Higher Education with a degree in Hotel Management, earned an Executive Master in Tourism Management from IE Business School with honours, and completed the High Advanced Management Program (PDD) at IESE Business School.

His expertise spans Communication Skills, Leadership, and Organisational Behaviour, making him a valuable asset to the academic community and a sought-after speaker in his field. Mr Cuenllas is dedicated to equipping future leaders with the skills and insights needed to excel in the dynamic world of international hospitality.

Chef Györgyi Balazs completed his culinary education in Hungary and gained valuable experience working in hotels and restaurants. Eager to broaden his horizons, Chef Györgyi ventured to the United States, specifically Miami, where he spent a year gaining international experience in the culinary industry.

Upon returning, Chef Györgyi joined the teaching team at BHMS, where he continues to share his passion for culinary arts and mentor aspiring chefs. His diverse background and international exposure enrich his teaching approach, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the culinary profession. Through his guidance and expertise, Chef Györgyi inspires students to excel in their culinary careers and strive for excellence in the culinary arts.

Mr Bruno AJ Baumann has over four decades of experience in leadership, international business, gastronomy, and strategic development. Holding degrees in Chemistry and Psychology, alongside a BBA and an MBA, Bruno also has a Federal Swiss Certificate for Hospitality Businesses.

As an esteemed member of the state board for federal exams in business and the KOF Swiss Economic Institute at ETH Zurich, Mr Baumann brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table. His proficiency spans micro- and macro-economic analysis, culinary arts, and psychological perspectives, enabling him to systematically assess situations and craft strategic solutions tailored to each unique context.

Mr Baumann's pragmatic approach is deeply rooted in reality, enriched by his extensive travels, exposure to diverse cultures, and immersion in subject-related literature. This holistic perspective underpins his lectures and business problem-solving coaching, ensuring a practical and effective approach to addressing challenges and capitalising on opportunities. 

He has been a lecturer at BHMS since 2006 and teaches Hotel & Restaurant Design, Menu Design, Culinary Business Analysis Food and Beverage Cost Management, and Creativity & Entrepreneurship.

Ms Cecylia Weibel holds a bachelor's degree in German from a pedagogical university, which has equipped her with specialised knowledge in teaching methodologies.  With over ten years of experience teaching in hospitality schools, she has honed her skills to understand precisely what students need to succeed. 

Her dedication to teaching is unwavering, and she finds joy in sharing her expertise, especially in the intricacies of German grammar, such as the accusative and dative cases. Teaching is not merely a job for her; it is her calling and passion. Since 2019, Ms Weibel has been committed to helping students at BHMS master the German language and achieve their academic and professional goals. 

Christopher Rezvani comes with a wealth of experience in the areas of international assignment management, project management, tax compliance and preparation, accounting, and consulting.

Mr Rezvani holds a BA in International Studies and an MBA in Finance, as well as an Advanced Diploma in Research Theory and Practice. 

He joined BHMS in 2015 and teaches Financial Accounting and German.

Davida Johnson brings a wealth of senior-level experience and global business acumen in petrochemicals, plastics, and consumer goods, with a focus on strategy development, business and organisational restructuring, and joint venture formation across Asia, North America, and South America. 

Her passion lies in people development and motivation, especially across diverse cultures. She also serves as a non-executive board director, business advisor and audit committee chair to various organisations. 

She joined BHMS in 2015 and teaches Dynamic Perspectives of Sustainability.

In 2023, Dayana Dimitrova returned to BHMS, her alma mater, where she now teaches New Food Product Development. 

After graduating with a degree in Culinary Arts, Ms Dimitrova embarked on a dynamic career path as a chef. She furthered her education with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York, obtaining certification as a Health Coach.

Ms Dimitrova's expertise in culinary arts and health coaching has allowed her to actively participate in various health awareness projects, including a movie production for Roche and creating a health-conscious cooking book. Through her involvement in these product development initiatives, she brings a unique perspective to the classroom, blending culinary innovation with a focus on holistic health and wellness. Her dedication to fostering creativity and practical skills in food product development ensures that her students receive a comprehensive and enriching learning experience.

Elda Betancourt is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in nutrition, education, and business. She holds a BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master's in Marketing, Elda has established herself as an expert in her field and is a proud member of the Mexican College of Dietitians and the Swiss Association of Nutrition.

Ms Betancourt's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Total Nutrition, her own company offering food services to enterprises. Alongside her entrepreneurial pursuits, she has been a part of the BHMS faculty since 2008 and currently teaches Nutrition, Food Safety, and Strategic Management in the Hospitality Industry.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Elda provides academic guidance to students in the context of the Centre for Academic Support and Advice (CASA).

Chef Fotios Kefalakis brings 27 years of experience as a pastry chef and educator, from working in cruise ships, worldwide restaurants, hotels, and pastry shops, before shifting his focus to culinary education.  His extensive expertise, acquired from various culinary environments around the world, underpins his commitment to excellence in culinary education.

Recognising the value of formal education in the pastry field, Chef Fotios Kefalakis draws from his own unique educational journey, marked by personal discovery through trial and error. With this insight, he is passionate about creating shortcuts for his students while ensuring they develop a profound understanding of the techniques they learn.

As an educator, Chef Fotios Kefalakis is dedicated to empowering his students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the culinary industry. He joined BHMS in 2022 where he teaches the pastry modules and strives to inspire and mentor the next generation of pastry chefs.

Mr Jaime (Jimmy) Astacio teaches English as a Second/Foreign Language. With over 15 years of teaching experience in both traditional and online environments, Mr Astacio has developed a passion for creating engaging lessons that incorporate group activities and real-life scenarios, enhancing the learning experience for his students.

Mr Astacio holds a CELTA English Teaching Certificate and a Master’s Degree in English with an Emphasis on Academic Writing. His extensive expertise in academic writing and English teaching ensures that his students receive high-quality education and support in their language learning journey.

Committed to the success and growth of his students, Mr Astacio takes great pride in working with BHMS students, helping them to achieve their language goals and succeed in their academic and professional endeavours. 

Mr John Seymour, an IATA/UFTAA Travel Consultant, brings a wealth of hands-on experience to his role as a lecturer at BHMS. With a deep understanding of the hospitality and tourism industry, Mr. Seymour utilises real-life examples to elucidate class concepts as they arise, providing students with invaluable insights into the workings of the industry through the following modules: Hospitality and Tourism Structure and Products and Sustainable Change Management for Tourism.

Specialising in teaching the structure of the hospitality and tourism industry, as well as sustainable change management in tourism, Mr Seymour is committed to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities within these dynamic sectors.

His unique blend of industry expertise and academic knowledge ensures that students receive a comprehensive and practical education, equipping them with the skills and understanding needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of hospitality and tourism.

Dr Jozef Simuth brings over 25 years of experience in academia and consultancy to his role at BHMS where he teaches Global Marketing to MBA students and serves as a Dissertation Advisor.  He has lectured at universities in the USA, UK, Switzerland, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, specialising in Marketing, Consumer Behaviour, Human Resources Management, and Psychology.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr Simuth works as an independent consultant and lecturer, focusing on consumer behaviour analysis and individual and professional development. He has collaborated with global corporations and SMEs from the USA, Japan, and Europe. He holds a PhD in Psychology, underpinning his multidisciplinary approach to education and consultancy.

Dr Simuth joined BHMS in 2015.

Ms Judith Schädler Wurster is the Associate Dean and the MSc and MBA programme leader. She teaches Global Business Communication and Intercultural Competencies, Academic Writing and Composition, and Capstone Project: Research Methods.

With over two decades of lecturing experience at various universities in the USA, UK, and Europe, Ms Schädler Wurster has developed a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and people she has encountered worldwide. She treasures the richness that this diversity brings to the learning environment and is passionate about sharing her cross-cultural competencies with her students.

Ms Schädler Wurster takes pride in the opportunity to mentor and inspire enthusiastic young students from around the globe. Her background in multilingual education enables her to lead by example and transfer valuable skills and knowledge to her students.

Ms Schädler Wurster holds a Master of Education in Linguistics and a Master of Business Administration, further enhancing her qualifications in the field of education. Beyond academia, she has a passion for photography, fashion, and languages and is an avid wine enthusiast. Her diverse interests and experiences contribute to her dynamic teaching approach, enriching the educational experience for her students.

Ms Katherine Ruiz Dela Cruz brings over 20 years of invaluable experience in the F&B fine dining sector to her role teaching Food & Beverage Service Operations at BHMS. During her tenure as Head Receptionist/Restaurant Manager for 5-star hotels in Hong Kong, she honed her skills in various aspects of hospitality management, including communication, leadership, menu design, SOP implementation, training, and upselling.

Drawing from her extensive industry knowledge and expertise, Ms Ruiz Dela Cruz provides students with practical insights and hands-on experience, preparing them for success in the competitive field of hospitality management.

She joined BHMS in 2016.

Kevin Klak is a consultant for retail, FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods), and manufacturing companies. He provides invaluable support to these organisations in navigating the complexities of digital transformation. With a focus on digital transformation, e-commerce, corporate governance, and social media, Kevin's work and publications span diverse topics.

Armed with a Master of Advanced Studies in Service Management and Marketing, Mr Klak is equipped with a deep understanding of the intricacies of digital media and its application in contemporary business environments. Additionally, he holds a Certificate of Advanced Studies as a Chief Digital Officer, further bolstering his expertise in digital strategy and leadership.

Kevin's unique blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world experience ensures that his teaching approach is comprehensive and relevant. By drawing from his experiences as a consultant and his insights into the evolving landscape of digital media, he provides students with valuable insights and prepares them for success in the digital age.

He joined BHMS in 2022.

Dr Klaus-Dieter Gronwald brings a wealth of practical experience and academic insight to BHMS where he has been a lecturer since 2016. With a dual career path as both an academic and a senior executive in the global IT services industry, Dr Klaus-Dieter Gronwald brings a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience to his teaching, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.

As an author and lecturer, Dr Gronwald has a passion for crafting engaging narratives that breathe life into otherwise dry teaching materials, transforming them into captivating learning adventures. This dedication to innovative pedagogy is a great asset to students in the Small Business Management module, who benefit from his dynamic and immersive teaching style.

Dr Gronwald's academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a Doctorate in physics from Leibniz University of Hannover, Germany, alongside a Master’s degree in physics and control engineering from the same institution. Additionally, he has earned a Certificate in university didactics from the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Switzerland, further enhancing his teaching proficiency.

Marcel Enzler's career in hospitality includes pivotal roles with renowned groups such as Campbell Grey Hotels (London), the Hilton Group (Zurich), and the Poppys Group in India, where he served as CEO, overseeing the successful construction and operation of 12 hotels.

He holds a BA in International Hospitality Management from IHTTI and an EMBA in Branding & Marketing Management from Kalaidos. He also shares his expertise as a Marketing and Strategic Consultant for various International companies. 

Mr Enzler joined BHMS in 2016 and teaches E-Commerce, Front Office Management, Hotel Operations Management, and Hospitality Business Concepts.

Mark Urech has been serving as the Academic Dean at BHMS since 2024, bringing with him a rich background in both industry and academia. He holds postgraduate degrees in Business Administration and Education, which have provided a strong foundation for his distinguished career. With leadership roles in various hospitality management institutions across Switzerland, Mr Urech has demonstrated exceptional academic proficiency, teaching and overseeing programmes from Advanced Diplomas to Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels.

Mr Urech stands out as a forward-thinking educational leader. He champions learner-centric methodologies and embraces innovation, creativity, and digital transformation to enhance student experiences. His expertise in quality processes, validations, accreditations, and curriculum development is complemented by his talent for coaching and mentoring faculty members, highlighting his commitment to cultivating a supportive and dynamic academic environment.

BHMS benefits from his dedication to academic excellence and his vision for a modern, student-focused educational experience. Mr Urech's contributions are integral to the institution's ongoing success and reputation in the field of hospitality management education.

Dr Martin-James Griffin brings over 40 years of professional expertise to his role at BHMS, where he currently teaches Entrepreneurship, and New Product and Service Innovation. With a diverse background spanning IT, management consulting, project management, marketing, sales, business development, and business research, Dr. Griffin offers invaluable insights to students.

Before his career in academia, Dr. Griffin held various key positions in renowned organisations. He served as a management consultant at Deloitte and later held the position of Principal Sales Consultant at Oracle, where he played a pivotal role in designing and project managing the FIFA World Cup database. His experience extends to Agile, a Silicon Valley software company, where he led business development efforts in Europe. Additionally, as Principal Consultant at Sofistiq, a psychology-based software company, Dr Griffin assisted companies in defining their strategy through a 3D visualisation of their customers' perceptions.

His comprehensive academic background, combined with his extensive industry experience, enables him to provide students with a rich learning experience grounded in real-world insights and practical knowledge.

He joined BHMS in 2016.

Martina Lenkova joined BHMS in 2011 and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom, specialising in Personal and Professional Development, Event Concepts and Planning, and Human Resource Management for Global Business. With a Master's degree in Education and a Postgraduate Diploma in Hospitality Management, Ms. Lenkova is equipped with a strong educational background.

With a positive attitude and years of teaching in diverse international classroom environments, Ms. Lenkova is dedicated to motivating and inspiring all her students. She focuses on creating a challenging and engaging learning environment while infusing fun into the classroom through a variety of learning activities. 

Ms Mary Angeles De Simone-Del Valle Senderos is a versatile and passionate educator, teaching Housekeeping Operations theory and practice, as well as Spanish. With a deep commitment to teaching, Ms De Simone-Del Valle Senderos brings extensive expertise and a dynamic approach to her role, ensuring that her students receive a comprehensive and engaging education.

Her diverse background includes studies in Hotel and Restaurant Management training in Alternative Medicine (Homeopathy, Bach-Flowers, aromatherapy, etc.) and qualifications as a nail designer and esthetic cosmetologist. She is currently pursuing a coaching qualification.

Ms De Simone-Del Valle Senderos' multifaceted skills and experiences provide a rich foundation for her teaching, enabling her to impart both practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for success in the field of hospitality. Beyond her professional endeavours, Ms De Simone-Del Valle Senderos has a love for music, playing both the trumpet and guitar, which adds to her vibrant and well-rounded persona. Her enthusiasm and diverse expertise make her an invaluable asset to the academic community and a beloved mentor to her students.

Mr Michael Hyvärinen draws from his extensive experience in the global hospitality sector to deliver modules in Managing Events, Food Service Management, Wine & Food Pairing, and Beverage Studies at BHMS.

Mr. Hyvärinen offers students learning rooted in real-life applications. His expertise in financial management, human resources, leadership, marketing, pre-opening operations, and training provides students with valuable insights into the industry.

Mr Hyvärinen holds a Masters in Online & Distance Education (MAODE), a Postgraduate Diploma in International Hotel & Tourism Management, and a Joint Honours BA in Chinese & Asia Pacific Studies. His diverse educational background, combined with his industry knowledge, equips him to deliver comprehensive and engaging courses that prepare students for success in the dynamic field of hospitality management.

He joined BHMS in 2016.

Chef Michael Meier embarked on his culinary career at the esteemed Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. Following his early success, he ventured to Switzerland, where he honed his skills in renowned hotels and restaurants in Arosa and Lucerne.

With a wealth of experience under his belt, Chef Michael was recruited to spearhead the opening of a private country club restaurant and oversee its kitchen and banquet departments in Houston, Texas. Subsequently, he furthered his career as Sous Chef at the prestigious five-star Four Seasons resort in Maui, Hawaii.

Chef Michael transitioned to education and joined the teaching team at BHMS. With his extensive industry experience and dedication to culinary excellence, Chef Michael brings invaluable insights to his role as an educator, inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals. His teaching philosophy is grounded in equipping students with a solid foundation of culinary skills and industry experience, preparing them for seamless integration into the workforce.

Through his guidance and mentorship, he nurtures aspiring chefs to become the next generation of industry leaders, shaping the future of the culinary profession with passion and dedication.

Myriam Bucher brings a rich multicultural background and linguistic expertise to her role as a German instructor. Growing up in the Middle East, Ms Bucher developed a deep understanding of Asian culture and mentality, being exposed to five languages from an early age.

With a passion for working with people from diverse backgrounds, Ms Bucher is dedicated to creating inclusive and engaging learning environments. Her experience as a translator and interpreter in German, English, and French further enhances her ability to facilitate effective communication.

Through her unique blend of cultural insight and linguistic proficiency, she strives to inspire students to achieve their language learning goals.

Olga Sasinovskaya brings a wealth of academic and industry experience to her role. Since 2006, she has been actively engaged in an international academic environment, as a researcher and lecturer across various Business Administration subjects at undergraduate, MSc, and executive levels. 

Ms Sasinovskaya's dedication to academia led her to spend a semester at Stanford University's Center for Design Research as a visiting researcher during her postgraduate studies. She holds a Master’s in Business Administration and Business Law from Lund University, Sweden.

She joined BHMS in 2017 and currently teaches Research Methods to MSc students.

Dr Patrick Oliver Flad teaches Digital Marketing and Analytics. With a background in financial and entrepreneurial responsibility, he brings a wealth of knowledge in general management to his teaching. Dr Flad has extensive management experience, including international roles, which enriches his perspective and approach to education.

He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration, with a focus on service management in the catering and hospitality industry. Dr Flad’s expertise spans across various domains, making him a versatile and insightful instructor for students aspiring to excel in the dynamic field of digital marketing.

Originally from South Wales, Paula Jones holds a BA (Hons) in History from the University of Leeds, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from the University of Worcester, and a Swiss Teaching Certificate from the Pädagogische Hochschule in Zurich. She holds further qualifications in Teaching English as a Foreign Language to Adults and Teaching English for Business, and has extensive teaching experience in the UK, Germany, and Switzerland. 

Over a long and varied career, Paula has worked in Sales and Advertising in the UK and as a Financial Editor and Project Co-ordinator at UBS. 

She joined BHMS in 2012 and teaches Academic Writing.

Mr Peter Gopcsa, Jr has over 15 years of experience in managing and advising organisations on operations and marketing. His consulting services primarily focus on organisation development, sales development, process optimisation, and coaching, across diverse industries globally, encompassing hospitality, wholesale and retail, and manufacturing sectors.

Mr Gopcsa holds an MBA in Global Management from City University of Seattle, a PGD in Hospitality Management from BHMS, and a BA in Andragogy from Kodolányi János University Budapest.

Throughout his career, he has cultivated a holistic and systematic approach to process optimisation and hospitality management. He shares this wealth of expertise with students in the Business Communications module.

Randall Ferguson has over 25 years of experience in business practices and strategies (including involvement in technology, plastics, and carbon-based industries). Drawing from his wealth of knowledge in International Business Management, Marketing, and Sustainability Methods, he aims to equip learners with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for success in today's dynamic business environment. Mr Ferguson joined BHMS in 2010 and teaches Business Sustainability, Consumer Marketing & Research, and International Business Law.

Sarah Loiseau joined BHMS as Associate Dean in 2024. With over 15 years of experience in both hospitality and higher education, Ms Loiseau brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She holds a BSc in Tourism and Hospitality Management, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and a Master’s in Education. 

Her career includes positions at esteemed hotels such as Le Prince Maurice, Constance Belle Mare Plage, and The Residence Mauritius. Since 2012, Ms Loiseau has dedicated herself to hospitality education, leading first-year bachelor's and English Foundation programmes, and managing the language department. 

Ms Loiseau's passion for teaching extends to practical room division courses, corporate short courses, and summer camps, where she inspires the next generation of hospitality professionals. A customer-centric and service-oriented professional, she is committed to providing exceptional educational experiences centred on collaborative teaching and learning methods. 

Her dedication to education and her extensive industry experience make her an invaluable asset to BHMS and a trusted mentor for her students.

Dr Sebastiano Mereu, a seasoned marketing professional, brings a wealth of practical experience and academic expertise to his role at BHMS, where he has taught since 2016. With over a decade of hands-on experience implementing marketing strategies and tactics across various industries, his teaching approach combines real-world experience with cutting-edge knowledge, providing students a comprehensive understanding of Marketing and Branding in a Digital Society.

Dr Mereu's academic journey includes earning a Doctor of Business Administration, a Master of Science in Marketing, and a Bachelor of Science in International Management. His doctoral dissertation focused on assessing the main characteristics influencing brand experience through live video on social media in the sports industry, leading to the development of a tactical marketing and communications framework for social media channels.

Prior to his academic career, Dr Mereu held key roles in leading organisations, including content and social media marketing positions at UBS in Switzerland and serving as an Online Communication go-to specialist for AKAD Business in Zurich. Additionally, he gained valuable experience as a Solution Consultant for Apple in Zurich.

With his blend of academic qualifications and industry experience, Dr Mereu is committed to empowering students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of a digital society.

Chef Shaun Leonard is a highly experienced culinary expert with over 30 years of experience in the F&B industry and over 20 years of teaching experience across 16 countries worldwide.

Chef Shaun has held prestigious positions leading kitchen departments for numerous Hilton, Kempinski, and Royal Garden Hotels, both nationally and internationally. Notably, he played a key role in the opening of the esteemed Paddington Hilton in London.

Drawing inspiration from both classical and modern kitchens, Chef Shaun's culinary journey has led him to become a recognised World Chefs official judge. Additionally, he has showcased his skills as a culinary competitor, winning gold and silver medals at prestigious competitions such as the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg and the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt and Stuttgart, Germany.

With his wealth of experience and dedication to the culinary arts, Chef Shaun leads the culinary programmes at BHMS (BHMS Culinary Academy) and focuses on imparting his knowledge and expertise to students. He encourages aspiring chefs to follow their passion for food and join him in the pursuit of culinary excellence.

Stephan Martin is a seasoned Master Confectioner with over two decades of experience in the upscale catering and hotel industry. Fuelled by passion and fervour, he approaches his work with creativity and innovation and lives by the mantra, "Anything is possible if you believe in yourself enough.” He joined BHMS in 2019 and teaches Food and Beverage Service Operations.

Susan Landtwing brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Business Ethics for Global Enterprises and Hospitality Yield and Revenue Management modules at BHMS. Before joining BHMS in 2022, Ms Landtwing held prominent positions at various hospitality management institutions, where she specialised in business ethics, corporate social responsibility, and management practice reflection, while also serving as a dissertation supervisor.

Ms Landtwing's background includes extensive tenure in the hospitality sector, having served as General Manager at Howard Johnson Inn, Assistant General Manager at Howards Johnson Plaza Hotel Downtown Toronto, and in various other leadership roles within Canadian hotels. Her experience extends to certification as a hospitality educator and proficiency in hotel revenue management.

Ms Landtwing holds an MBA in Master of Business Administration with a Hospitality Specialisation from Oxford Brookes University in Oxford, UK. Combining her practical knowledge from senior management roles with her expertise in higher education, she is uniquely positioned to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business ethics and global enterprise. She is dedicated to guiding students towards acquiring the skills necessary to excel in their careers, drawing upon her wealth of experience and passion for teaching and learning.

With a diverse academic background, Ms Virginia Spantidea holds an MSc in Business Administration specialising in Business Development and Promotion, an MA in Modern British Culture, and a PGCert in Teaching English for Academic Purposes, complemented by a BA in English Language & Literature. As a dedicated professional, she specialises in guiding students towards leveraging and optimising their language skills for effective communication in the global working community. 

Ms Spantidea's expertise extends to nurturing analytical and critical thinking, essential for academic success. At BHMS since 2010, she teaches Academic Writing and Business Communication and is committed to equipping students with the necessary tools for success.

Dr Yael Barzilay-Teschemacher joined BHMS in 2021, where she teaches International Business Environment and Project Management. With a profound understanding of the complex interplay between business and society, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her teaching and professional roles.

Dr Barzilay-Teschemacher's academic journey began in Vienna, where she earned her MSc in Socioeconomics from the Vienna University of Economics and Business. She then pursued her PhD in Philosophy at the University of Basel, focusing her research on the relationship between business and society in India, with a particular emphasis on Corporate Responsibility. During her doctoral studies, she was an integral part of an international research team, contributing to several papers published in peer-reviewed journals.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr Barzilay-Teschemacher serves as a project manager for a food certification company based in Basel. This role has provided her with practical insights into the operational challenges and cultural nuances businesses face when operating across different countries. Her diverse background and hands-on experience underscore the importance of cultural sensitivity and corporate responsibility for the success of multinational enterprises.

Dr Barzilay-Teschemacher is dedicated to equipping her students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the global business landscape effectively, fostering an understanding of how businesses can thrive by acknowledging and respecting cultural differences.