Julien Mattei Appointed as the New Chief Investment Officer at a&o Hostels

Julien Mattei, 36, has been appointed as the new Chief Investment Officer of Europe’s largest hostel chain, a&o Hostels. Previously serving as Investment Director at The Social Hub (formerly The Student Hotel) and in investment management at Norges Bank Investment Management (which manages Norway’s sovereign wealth fund, the Government Pension Fund Global), Mattei brings 15 years of experience in real estate investment and development across Europe. He will collaborate closely with a&o’s team of real estate and finance professionals.

Julien Mattei: “We are continuing our expansion in Europe and see highly attractive opportunities in prime locations, particularly in hotel and office conversions.”

Oliver Winter, CEO of a&o Hostels: “Julien Mattei is our top choice and perfect fit for a&o. He is a strategic expert with a keen eye for detail and brings an extensive network that will be immensely beneficial for our European expansion.”

With four new openings since the summer of 2024, a&o has been enjoying one of the most dynamic periods in its 25-year history, currently operating 42 properties across 11 European countries, 19 of which are owned by a&o. Supported by its owners, StepStone Group and Proprium Capital Partners, a&o has approximately €500 million available for further European expansion.

Julien Mattei: “I am excited to contribute to a&o’s further growth in Europe alongside founder Oliver Winter and our partners at StepStone Group and Proprium Capital Partners.”

Mattei also recognizes the industry’s challenges: “Rising costs, the increasing need for sustainability awareness, and global social and economic shifts bring new expectations and demands for the tourism industry, and we remain well positioned to successfully navigate these.”