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Congratulations to the 2025 CEO Light & Warmth Award Winners

Hilton Careers Team

20 January 2026

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Congratulations to the remarkable Team Members recognized with Hilton’s CEO Light & Warmth Award, the highest honor at Hilton. This annual recognition celebrates those who lead with heart, live our purpose, and create truly meaningful moments for our guests every day. 

This year, 15 exceptional Team Members from across the globe have been named 2025 CEO Light & Warmth Award recipients. Through their passion, dedication, and service, they elevate the guest experience, positively impact their communities, and carry forward Hilton’s legacy of hospitality in powerful ways. Join us as we spotlight some of the 2025 winners, learn more about their inspiring journeys, and celebrate the commitment and excellence that set them apart.

Together, let’s recognize these incredible Team Members who bring Hilton’s light and warmth to life around the world. 

https://vimeo.com/1190522623

The Americas

Coral Espinal, Experiences Manager at Conrad Punta de Mita, has redefined site inspections by transforming them into immersive, guest-centric journeys through her innovative “Site Inspection Blast,” now adopted across multiple properties. Her leadership extends to Team Members and the community, driving engagement, career inspiration, and a significant increase in site conversion rates. 

Chef Juan Anaya, Banquet Sous Chef at Hilton Anatole, embodies Hilton’s spirit of hospitality through his unwavering dedication to excellence, mentorship, and genuine care for others. Over his 25-year tenure, he has become a pillar of the culinary team, valued not only for his skill but for the way he inspires confidence and growth in everyone around him. 

Europe, Middle East, & Africa 

Chef Miroslav Janjić, from Keight Hotel Opatija, Curio Collection by Hilton Croatia, actively cultivates an environment where every Team Member feels valued and encouraged to grow. Miroslav enhances the dining experience by conducting engaging cooking show sessions, connecting with guests and elevating their overall experience.  

Anaïs Pierron, Director of Sales at the Hilton Geneva Hotel & Conference Center, embodies the heart of hospitality, consistently going above and beyond to make every guest feel welcomed and cared for. Her authentic warmth and attention to detail create memorable connections, and she actively promotes Hilton values through international trade shows and local outreach. 

Asia Pacific 

Mari Makabe, PA to the General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake, plays a vital role in boosting Team Member morale and guest experience through her leadership of Care Committee initiatives. Her daily engagement with guests, analytical insights, and sustainability partnerships reflect hospitality that is both thoughtful and impactful. 

Payap Khunkayan, Sustainability Manager at Conrad Koh Samui, has embedded sustainability into daily operations and the guest experience through farm-to-table programs, composting, and hydroponics. His mentorship and community outreach inspire Team Members and future generations while demonstrating that sustainability can drive real business value. 

Corporate 

Nathan Hughes, Director of HRCC, leads with empathy and decisive action, championing accessibility, equity, and inclusion while delivering record-breaking performances. His ability to pair people-first leadership with operational excellence has created lasting impact for Team Members, customers, and owners. 

2025 Winners

Ready to begin your Hilton journey? Click here to search open positions.
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Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay Every job makes the stay 

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