Julien Mattei has been appointed Chief Investment Officer at a&o Hostels in Berlin, Germany
Julien Mattei, 36, has been appointed as the new Chief Investment Officer of Europe's largest hostel chain, a&o Hostels. Previously serving as Investment Director at The Social Hub (formerly The Student Hotel) and in investment management at Norges Bank Investment Management (which manages Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the Government Pension Fund Global), Mattei brings 15 years of experience in real estate investment and development across Europe. He will work with a&o's team of real estate and finance experts.
With four new openings since the summer of 2024, a&o has been enjoying one of the most dynamic periods in the 25-year company history. Property ownership has increased through acquisitions and a&o currently operates 42 properties in 11 European countries, 19 of them owned by a&o which accounts for 45% of the total portfolio. With the backing of its owners, StepStone Group and Proprium Capital Partners, a&o has approximately €500 million available to invest in its further European expansion.
a&o expansion in prime European metropolitan areas
The primary focus for a&o is acquiring existing hotels, as well as office and commercial buildings suitable for conversion. While property ownership remains a priority, leasing remains an attractive option, as well as potential new developments.
€500 million for European expansion
Together with its owners, StepStone Group and Proprium Capital Partners, a&o will invest approximately €500 million in the construction, renovation, and modernization of existing and new properties by 2030.
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