To bring you closer to what the FIHR community truly represents, we are launching a series of interviews dedicated to dialogue with the members of the FIHR Board of Directors. Through “FIHR Board Talks”, we invite you to discover the vision, experience and stories of those who contribute to the development of the hotel industry in Romania.
Interview with Raluca Bogdan, Financial Controller, Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels Bucharest
1. Why did you become a member of FIHR?
We chose to become FIHR members because membership in this federation means having an active, protected and supported voice in a competitive sector and, at the same time, vulnerable to external changes. In a constantly changing economic and legislative context, it is essential that the hotel industry is represented in a unified and professional manner. FIHR offers exactly this platform for dialogue and joint action, where each member contributes to the consolidation of a fair and sustainable framework for all operators in the field.
2. What are the problems, topics or needs that FIHR membership solves for you?
FIHR offers concrete support and representation before authorities, as well as access to information and practical tools for the effective management of industry challenges. Membership in such a collective structure allows for an integrated approach to critical issues such as taxation, labor law, sustainability standards or digitalization. It is a valuable source of guidance and support in a field that is constantly adapting to new economic realities.
3. What was the most valuable initiative within FIHR for you?
One of the most important initiatives was the active intervention of FIHR in the dialogue with the authorities regarding the VAT increase. It is a concrete example of how the organization manages to react promptly and with arguments to legislative changes with a direct impact on the industry. FIHR has been a constant and balanced dialogue partner, managing to convey the messages of the hotel environment in a professional and constructive manner.
4. How do you personally contribute to the work of FIHR at this time?
My personal contribution is materialized through active participation in the working group dedicated to legislation and taxation, where new regulations applicable to the industry are discussed and analyzed. Together with the other members, we evaluate the impact of these changes on the hotel activity and formulate proposals that can bring balance and clarity to the implementation. It is a valuable experience of collaboration and exchange of expertise.
5. FIHR represents the interests of hotel members in their relations with the authorities. On which of the important topics has the consultative and negotiation activity carried out by FIHR helped you?
There were several relevant topics, but one of the most recent and significant is the one related to the VAT increase. FIHR managed to provide members with a clear perspective on the context and consequences of this measure, but also to initiate a constructive dialogue with decision-makers. Such actions are essential for the stability and predictability of our sector.
6. Were the information, workshops and explanations provided by FIHR through specialists from different fields (EU directives, legislative, fiscal changes, etc.) useful to you? How do you evaluate the access to know-how offered by FIHR?
Yes, without a doubt. Access to the know-how offered by FIHR is one of its strengths. Through seminars, conferences, webinars and educational partnerships, members benefit from up-to-date market information and professional interpretations of new regulations. It is a constant learning and updating resource, which directly contributes to the professional development of hotel teams.
7. What major challenges do you face in the daily operation of the hotel?
The main challenges include the lack of specialized labor, frequent legislative changes and, sometimes, ambiguities in their application. These aspects significantly influence operational and financial planning, requiring continuous adaptation. Therefore, collaboration within the FIHR helps by sharing good practices and identifying common solutions.
8. Have you had any business or collaboration opportunities through FIHR?
Yes, valuable opportunities are constantly emerging thanks to the extensive network of FIHR members. The exchange of experience, recommendations and collaborations between hotels and industry partners create a fertile framework for joint projects, innovation and development. The networking offered by FIHR plays an essential role in strengthening professional relationships and supporting initiatives in the sector.
9. How do you see the evolution of the Romanian hotel industry and what role should FIHR play in this process?
The Romanian hotel industry has a real potential to become an important engine of the national economy. For this, strong associative leadership is needed, well connected to reality and actively involved in reform. FIHR has the role of coagulating these forces — to support the professionalization, coherent representation and sustainable development of the sector. Through a unified voice and solid expertise, the federation can drive real transformations.
10. What message would you like to convey to other hotels considering joining FIHR? What are the main pros?
I would encourage any hotel to become a FIHR member. The benefits are multiple:
- National and international representation;
- Influence in legislative decision-making processes;
- Access to updated information and know-how resources;
- Networking and collaboration opportunities within the industry.
Being part of FIHR means actively contributing to the future of the Romanian hotel industry and, at the same time, enjoying the support of a professional and supportive community.
