PKF hospitality group has announced the appointment of Akshara Walia as Managing Director of PKF research GmbH, effective 1st July 2026. In her new role, Ms Walia will be responsible for the group's global research activities within the hospitality sector. The aim is to further strengthen PKF hospitality group's position as a provider of market information, analyses, and strategic consulting services for the hospitality and real estate industries.
Ms Walia has been with PKF hospitality group since 2016, during which time she has played a crucial role in expanding the company's research and data-driven consulting services. As Director of Research, she led the Data Analytics department. Her responsibilities included market analyses, industry publications, the development of forecasting models, and the execution of customised research projects for international clients. Her work has significantly enhanced market transparency and supported strategic decision-making processes in the hospitality industry.
Experience and Expertise
In addition to her previous duties, Walia took over leadership of the research department at the Future of Hospitality Institute in 2025. This institute, established as a think tank, focuses on Serviced Living. In this capacity, she was responsible for quantitative research initiatives dealing with high-growth segments such as Branded Residences, Co-Living, and student accommodation. With a doctorate in Business Administration and Socioeconomics, Akshara Walia combines academic expertise with extensive consulting experience, bringing a unique perspective to hospitality research and market analysis.
Akshara Walia expressed positive sentiments regarding her upcoming role change at PKF hospitality group. Her goal as Managing Director is to foster a culture of collaboration and excellence to achieve sustainable results for clients and employees. Michael Widmann, Global CEO of PKF hospitality group, emphasised that Akshara Walia has made a decisive contribution to building and developing the research platform over the past ten years. He highlighted her analytical expertise, innovative thinking, and deep understanding of evolving concepts in the hotel and serviced living sectors. This has solidified the group's position as a trusted advisor for investors, project developers, and operators worldwide.
Strategic Importance for Market Information
With this personnel decision, PKF hospitality group underlines its commitment to providing first-class market information and future-oriented insights. This aims to enable clients to successfully navigate an increasingly complex and rapidly changing hospitality market and make informed decisions. Walia's appointment is considered a strategic step towards further differentiation and expanding market leadership in hospitality research.
- —Akshara Walia will become Managing Director of PKF research GmbH from 1st July 2026.
- —She will lead global research activities in the hospitality sector.
- —Previous positions include Director of Research and Head of Research at the Future of Hospitality Institute.
- —The aim is to strengthen market position through precise analyses and strategic consulting.
