Hilton UK and Ireland Team

David Waddington
National Director of Sales

Attending Q2 2026IMEX FRANKFURT
19-21 MayTHE MEETING SHOW
24-25 JuneHWS UK FESTIVAL
24-25 June

Where are you based?
London, UKWhat do you love most about your job?
For me, it’s all about the people. I really enjoy being in a role where I can support and develop others, help them reach their potential, and take the next step in their career. I also love being around people in general — whether that’s our lovely customers, my team, or our hotel teams.Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
This is a tricky one because there are so many amazing places to visit in the UK. I love spending time in London and playing tourist for the day, but outside of London it has to be North Devon. I spent a lot of time there growing up, and I still love the beaches and the beautiful scenery.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
This is a really hard one because there are so many amazing places to visit, but I have to say the Algarve in Portugal. We’ve been going there as a family for years — it’s a short flight (which is a big win with two young children), the weather is usually spot on, and I completely switch off the second I step off the plane. Portugal is just beautiful. It’s a place that’s very close to our hearts… so close, in fact, that we were meant to get married there — thanks, Covid. Instead, we’re now planning a big celebration with friends and family for our 10‑year wedding anniversary, which feels like a great excuse for a party anyway.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
Wow, that’s a tricky one. I’ve been in hospitality for so long it’s hard to imagine doing anything else, but if I had to choose, it would definitely be something where I could make a real difference to people and help improve their lives — maybe working in the community or supporting people who need a bit of extra help
One item I never travel without is…
I love keeping active, and it’s the best excuse to explore new places (often followed by a well‑earned coffee)

Maria Di Leo
Account Director | North America & Mexico

Attending Q2 2026CONFERENCE DIRECT
17-21 MayIRF INVITATIONAL
26-29 May

Where are you based?
I’d say UK & Ireland, to be honest — I’m everywhere! Home is Sussex, the office is in London, and my heart’s with our beautiful hotels across the UK & Ireland.What do you love most about your job?
The people! Whether it’s connecting with clients or collaborating with colleagues, it’s the human side that keeps it exciting. Oh, and I do love a good event — especially when it means travelling across the Asia Pacific, which I’m lucky enough to look after.Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
Brighton has my heart. I lived and worked there for 8 years — it’s vibrant, diverse, and always buzzing.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
The Maldives. Pure paradise.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
A rock star. 🤘 (At least in my dreams!)One item I never travel without is…
Music, water, and my phone. The holy trinity of travel essentials!

Natália Mitchell
Account Director | APAC & South America

Attending Q2 2026

Where are you based?
Rochester, UK and I love it. Such a historical city, with the local shops and cafes. I am fortunate to leave in a flat facing the river and with an open view for stunning sunsets. All those 40 minutes away from London, can’t complain at all.What do you love most about your job?
The people connections and immersive routine on the hospitality, with the possibility to travel to other countries and discover new destinations.Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
Coming from a busy city in Brazil, I learned how to appreciate a small village where the time pass slowly. The area of Cotswold, in Uk is like that, and New Forest bring you closer to the wide life. Ireland is on my heart and it was the first country I lived out of Brazil. I will name the coast cities of Howth & Malahide, but Dublin is where the fun live atmosphere is.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
Surprising no one, I will say my home country, Brazil. A diverse place where you feel the cultural plurality and authenticity, which range from the lush nature to the richness of urban culture, from adventure tourism to gastronomy.
As a Brazilian, we used to say, "The best thing about Brazil is the Brazilians". The friendly, warm welcome is felt everywhere you go and is part of who we are.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
I’d be a personal shopper. I navigated on this market during pandemic and not going to lie, I realize I am pretty good on that.One item I never travel without is…
My Kindle. A good book makes the time flies. Headphones and water are a must as well.

Tracy Colley
Account Director | UK and Ireland

Attending Q2 2026THE MEETING SHOW
24-25 JuneEVENTS R TALENTED
24 June

Where are you based?
Liverpool – well, just over the water!What do you love most about your job?
No two days are ever the same, and I love how many amazing connections turn into lasting relationships. Always here to share a smile (or two)!Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
It has to be Liverpool – it’s Boss! But truthfully, I just love an adventure. Give me fresh air, great company, and time with family and friends, and I’m happy anywhere.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
Florida! Even before joining Hilton, I always stayed at the Homewood Suites by Hilton on International Drive – they’ve always delivered the warmest of welcomes.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
...a penguin keeper! That was the childhood dream – animals have always had my heart.One item I never travel without is…
Lip-gloss – I don’t go anywhere without it! Well, that and my family, of course

Vasileios Sarafoglou
National Sales Manager | Continental Europe

Attending Q2 2026IMEX FRANKFURT
19-21 May

Where are you based?
London, United KingdomWhat do you love most about your job?
Working with people – both our amazing customers and our hotel teams. No two days are the same, and I love the energy that comes with it.Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
Cornwall – there’s just something about the coast that never gets old.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
The Greek Islands. Call me biased, but for me, there’s truly nothing like them – sunshine, food, beaches... it’s unbeatable.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
...in sports! I’d love to be involved in any capacity. It’s a big passion of mine.One item I never travel without is…
Headphones. I can survive without Netflix, but not without music.

Maia Boyle
Venue Finder and Events Specialist

Attending Q2 2026

Where are you based?
Tamworth, StaffordshireWhat do you love most about your job?
The variety it brings - representing a wide range of hotels across the UK and Ireland means no two days are ever the same. I get to collaborate with so many different teams nationwide, which keeps things exciting and dynamic. I especially enjoy bringing events to life and seeing all the behind-the-scenes planning and hard work come together successfully.Favourite travel destination in the UK & Ireland?
The North of the country does have a hold on me! Whether it be Liverpool,Manchester or Newcastle- I love the friendly people and the vibe of smaller cities with great live music scenes.Favourite travel destination outside the UK & Ireland?
Ibiza is definitely a favourite - beyond the party reputation, it has a really special energy. I love the mix of beautiful beaches, great food, and a relaxed vibe that makes it perfect for switching off.If I weren’t in hospitality, I’d be...
I’d be a DJ touring festivals across the world !One item I never travel without is…
Headphones!