People Roundup: Spotahome, Immoweb

There have been some C-suite changes in Europe in this week's people roundup...

Europe: Spotahome CEO steps down, replaced by COO

Alejandro Artacho, founder and CEO at Spain-based rentals marketplace Spotahome, has departed the company after 12 years.

Spotahome has appointed Eduardo Garbayo, COO, to the position of CEO. The company will not seek a replacement COO, with VP of Operations Ivan Ruiz stepping up without taking a new title.

Eduardo Garbayo told Online Marketplaces that Spotahome is ready to go to the next level:

"Since 2020, I have worked on the company's restructuring. I believe that during that difficult time, very solid foundations were laid that have enabled us to achieve profitability at certain points throughout the year. Now it's time to consolidate that profitability through growth. To achieve this goal, there is both a financial plan and a strategic plan in place. I embrace this new responsibility with enthusiasm and energy to take Spotahome to the next level."

Speaking on LinkedIn, the outgoing Artacho said:

"It’s been 12 intense epic years. A rollercoaster. Pre Covid we experienced international hypergrowth (from 0 to 400 Spotters in 3 years) and post Covid a disciplined way of growing back focusing on margins from zero revenue. Different games, different leadership. Super grateful for the rare opportunity of living both. I’m excited for what’s next for Spotahome and myself."

Immoweb hires new CPTO

Martine van der Lee has joined Immoweb, Belgium's leading real estate platform, as its new Chief Product and Technology Officer.

Speaking on LinkedIn, van der Lee said:

"I’m very excited to join Immoweb, part of Aviv Group, as CPTO. Immoweb is Belgium’s leading real estate platform, with a clear mission to inspire, guide and close every home move. For me, technology is all about improving the way we live. That’s why I’m energised to join such a focused, customer-centred and driven team, working to support one of life’s most important decisions."