London – November 06, 2026 -- HBX Group International plc has appointed co-founder Carlos Muñoz as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 December 2026, following the retirement of CEO Nicolas Huss on 30 September 2026.
Board search ends with an internal co-founder appointment
Muñoz will remain on the Board and move from Non-Executive Director to Executive Director. Shareholders elected him as a Non-Executive Director at the Annual General Meeting on 12 February 2026. The Board led a comprehensive search before selecting him for what it calls the next phase of growth at the Spanish-listed group (HBX.SM).
Muñoz brings more than 26 years of travel industry experience. At HBX Group he has been Deputy CEO, Chief Commercial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director. In those roles he led global commercial strategy, product innovation, partnerships and operational integration across Europe, Asia and the Americas.
Chair James Bilefield links the appointment to AI opportunity
Bilefield said Muñoz combines industry knowledge with a technology background and a record in platform development, innovation, commercial leadership and operational delivery. His ability to join technology, data and business strategy will matter "as AI creates new opportunities across the travel industry," the Chair said.
Muñoz said he intends to use the group's technology solutions, data capabilities and teams to accelerate execution and create long-term value for partners and shareholders. He cited the group's leading position in B2B travel technology and its relationships with customers and partners worldwide.
Interim CEO and CFO Brendan Brennan covered the transition
Brendan Brennan served as Interim CEO and CFO between Huss's departure and Muñoz's start. Bilefield credited him with providing continuity and stability and with managing the handover with care and professionalism.