Valdis Vanadzins

Country Manager

I’m a passionate hotelier and business strategist with over 20 years of experience leading top-tier hotels and motivating teams across the Baltics. Based in Riga, I blend sharp operational thinking with a genuine care for people — guests, colleagues, and partners alike.

From 2016 to 2024, I managed three major Riga hotels — Pullman, Mercure, and Ibis — overseeing 279 rooms, several restaurants, a spa, and over 10 conference halls, with a strong focus on MICE. I led a team of 180, fine-tuned service, built revenue strategies, and even made sure the cigar lounge never ran out.

Before that, as GM of Mercure Riga Centre, I exceeded profit targets and added value by converting a casino into 40 guestrooms. Earlier in my career, I climbed the ranks at Booking.com — from Account Manager in Vienna to Area Manager for the Baltics — opening offices in Tallinn and Vilnius and building strong local teams.

I hold an MBA in Strategic Tourism Management and a BA in Geography. I’m fluent in Latvian, English, and Russian, and known for my curiosity, quick wit, and “let’s make it happen” mindset. Outside work, I enjoy skiing, photography, and great coffee.

My colleagues describe me with these 3 words:

1: Determined
2: Decisive
3: Charismatic

SINCE: With DMC Nordic since 2025.