Purpose, Curiosity, and Leadership Built Through Service

Louis Zameryka’s journey, from a 12‑year‑old dreaming of the vacation industry to Director of Global Accounts at Booking.com, reveals a leader shaped by curiosity, intentionality, and authentic service. He shares how early hotel roles, guided by strong mentors, taught him to thrive in chaos, build structure, and embrace the joy of creating value for travelers and partners. His 17‑year rise at Booking.com began with only a handful of colleagues charged with building the Americas; Lou leaned into listening, learning cultural nuance, and solving problems by choosing the right words, the right approach, and the right relationships.

He describes winning through emotional intelligence, earning trust, building commercial partnerships, and even measuring success in hugs. Volunteer leadership through HSMAI strengthened his voice, expanded his network, and shaped his belief that service and commercial excellence can coexist powerfully. Lou also reflects on resilience, leading through downturns, adapting to disruption, and learning to blend work and life through clarity of values, intentional decision‑making, and supportive relationships.

His most personal insight comes in choosing to leave Booking.com at its peak to build something new with purpose, courage, and confidence in the future he wants to shape.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "I wanted to be part of that moment of travel."
• "If we're going to win, I need to get hugs."
• "Words matter, they change everything."
• "Lead with curiosity and think in 360."
• "I'm perfectly comfortable with taking the chance."

Closing Reflection

Lou Zameryka’s story inspires professionals to lean into curiosity, build meaningful relationships, and pursue growth with courage. His journey proves that service, humility, and bold intention can open doors to extraordinary impact.