The Crete Hoteliers Association is turning a page with the assumption of the presidency by Emmanuel (Manolis) Stamatakis, marking a new phase for the island’s tourism sector. Mr. Stamatakis, a well-known hotelier with many years of experience and owner of the Cavo Spada Deluxe & Spa hotel in Chania, succeeds the previous administration in a period of intense challenges and transformations for Greek tourism.
From the Chania Hoteliers Association to the “helm” of Crete
The election of Mr. Stamatakis is a natural continuation of his active presence in the tourism events of Crete, as he has held the position of president of the Chania Prefecture Hoteliers Association since 2024. His transition to the leadership of the Crete Hoteliers Association reflects a dynamic changing of the guard, based on the need to strengthen the institutional role of hoteliers in a rapidly changing environment.
Clear strategic stance
In his first public statements, the new president clearly outlined his key priorities, focusing on:
Maintaining the quality and authenticity of Crete’s tourism product, with respect for tradition but also investing in modern hospitality.
Strengthening the voice of hoteliers on critical institutional fronts, such as the regulation of short-term rentals and the management of working conditions in tourism, especially at a time when attracting and retaining staff is a major issue.
Strengthening cooperation with the Region, Municipalities and tourism bodies, with the aim of better promoting the island in international markets, implementing infrastructure projects and implementing sustainable practices that will ensure the long-term prosperity of the destination.
New Board of Directors with broad representation
The election process was accompanied by the appointment of a Board of Directors with broad geographical and professional representation, which aspires to operate collectively and with enhanced consultation. The new composition of the Board of Directors is as follows:
President: Emmanuel Stamatakis
1st Vice President: Nikos Chalkiadakis
2nd Vice President: Manolis Tsakalakis
General Secretary: Kyriakos Papadakis
Deputy Secretary: Manolis Manousos
Treasurer: Nikos Koumnas
Public Relations Officer: Kostas Papadakis
Alternate member: Ioannis Prokopakis (according to his personal wish)
The composition reflects the effort to represent different regions and perceptions, aiming for unity and efficiency.
Given the importance of Crete as a leading tourist destination in the country, the new administration is called upon to balance the demands of international competitiveness and the need for quality, identity and social cohesion.
