Rachel Argaman on leaving TFE: “It has been an outstanding adventure”
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.”
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
rachel argaman resignation TFE Hotels women in travelLatest News
Australia fails to make top 10 destination list for American travellers
Australia's top cities have failed to make the grade with American travellers this northern summer, with no local city in the top.
APT Launches 2025 Asia Adventures
APT has launched its Asia Adventures for 2025, including new luxury holidays in India, Sri Lanka and Japan. Five new tours lead guests to the highlights of India, including a seven-night cruise along the rarely travelled Lower Ganges aboard the Ganges Voyager. Further south, Sri Lanka’s greatest destinations are revealed on a new 15-day Land […]
ANZAC Battlefield travel on the 2025 bucketlist
As Anzac Day dawns, agents prepare for a surge in bookings for the 110th anniversary of the Anzac Cove landings.
Former Channel 9 Getaway host and founder of TRIBE Jules Lund to speak at Travel DAZE
From blond-tipped travel reporter to Travel DAZE speaker, Jules Lund cuts through the BS.
HX’s Roald Amundsen finds aliens in the Antarctic
Forget whales, HX's MS Roald Amundsen captures aliens in the Antarctic - and they're not pretty.
Mayhem in France as 70% of flights face cancellation
I mean it wouldn't be France if there wasn't at least one strike.
Etihad Airways launches double-decker service with world’s only in-air three-room suite
We imagine falling asleep in the three-room suite is superior to falling asleep on your neighbour's shoulder.
Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe travel season
Europe certainly has a lot of ports. Its time for Australia to up its game.
“The power of travel for positive change” – Intrepid’s Jenny Gray hails controversial all-women Saudi Arabia trip
There is an awful lot to love about this tour from Intrepid. Where do we sign up?
Princess names the Sun, unveils Sanctuary Collection + Star Princess to Alaska in ’26
A huge bottle of Veuve was smashed into the side of the ship to make things official. So no, we couldn't snag a glass.
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
If you are craving a trip to Europe then grab this deal with both of your grubby hands.
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Here at TW we agreed that the photo would have worked better if they had swapped planes.
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
Contrary to what the photo suggests this benefit is only applicable for humans. Back to work Mrs Jumbo.
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!