Philippe Vignon Managing Director at Glion Institute of Higher Education in Glion-sur-Montreux, Switzerland
Glion Institute of Higher Education is proud to announce the appointment of Philippe Vignon as its new Managing Director, effective June 16th, 2025.
Founded in 1962, Glion is a prestigious Swiss institution recognized globally for its excellence in hospitality management and luxury education. With its rich heritage, commitment to excellence, industry connections, Glion has become a benchmark in the academic world—shaping generations of leaders who elevate the hospitality, tourism, and luxury industries worldwide. The appointment of Philippe Vignon is a strategic decision to reinforce Glion's identity as a Swiss-born global brand, and to accelerate its next phase of development, innovation, and influence.
A profile in perfect harmony with Glion's vision
With over 30 years of experience at the helm of major international organizations in sectors ranging from tourism and aviation to digital media and education, Philippe Vignon brings a rare combination of strategic insight, cross-cultural leadership, and operational excellence. His career has been defined by transformative initiatives, business growth, and the ability to position brands as leaders in their respective domains.
Career highlights include:
- CEO, Geneva Tourism and Conventions: Transformed the institution into a high-performing Destination Marketing Organisation, leading to a 10% increase in regional tourism spending over four years.
- CEO, Edipresse Digital - Edipresse Group: Designed and executed a comprehensive digital strategy across more than 50 websites, accelerating the group's transition to digital media.
- General Manager Commercial Switzerland, Italy, Germany & Eastern Europe, easyJet: Oversaw the airline's most profitable bases, spearheaded the launch of easyJet in Geneva, and delivered 1.5 million new passengers within 18 months.
- L'Oréal Suisse SA: Advanced from Brand Manager to National Sales & Marketing Director, showcasing strong capabilities in brand development, team leadership, and commercial strategy.
His expertise also extends to several strategic advisory and board positions. He is a member of the Advisory Committee of the Doyof Al Rahman Program (Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia), and acts as a board advisor to Cabanner, a digital platform reinventing sustainable and exclusive travel, and to Sky2Share, a Swiss aviation initiative promoting eco-conscious private jet sharing. He is also an independent board member of the Hôtel des Horlogers, an innovative sustainable luxury property developed by Audemars Piguet in the Vallée de Joux.
Leading with purpose
Philippe's extensive international background, his ability to align stakeholders across cultures, and his deep understanding of both business and education make him the ideal leader to further Glion's mission. He will oversee Glion's campuses in Switzerland and the UK, forge strategic partnerships with key players in hospitality, tourism, and luxury, and enhance the student experience through innovation and operational excellence.
In addition, he will be tasked with spearheading Glion's global expansion ambition, identifying new growth markets, fostering institutional collaborations, and scaling Glion's influence in regions where excellence in hospitality education is in growing demand.
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