Public relations specialist Abode Worldwide has recruited Kerry Wilson to the role of Chief Operating Officer. The London-based agency, which focuses on hospitality technology and proptech, confirmed the appointment on 30 March 2026. This move is part of a wider effort to scale the business following a reported average annual growth rate of 30 per cent.
Wilson joins the firm with an extensive background in agency leadership and business transformation. Her career includes more than 20 years of experience with major technology brands and innovation-led agencies. She previously held senior positions at MullenLowe UK, Rehab Agency, BWP Group and Brandwidth. During her time at Rehab Agency, she worked closely with global giants such as Google. In her new capacity at Abode, she will be responsible for overseeing operations and managing client services.
“Abode has a very clear sense of what it stands for and where it creates value. It has built strong momentum by combining deep sector knowledge with commercially minded communications, a powerful mix that hospitality tech companies look for in a communications partner. I’m very excited to help scale the business and support the team in building on the strong platform already in place for the next stage of growth,” said Kerry Wilson.
The agency was established in 2017 by Jessica Gillingham and has since built a reputation for its niche market intelligence. This includes the annual Short-Term Rental Tech Index and the Hospitality Tech Investment Index. Abode currently serves a diverse international client base across North America, Europe, the UK and APAC.
Jessica Gillingham, CEO and Founder of Abode Worldwide, said: “The hospitality and proptech industry is evolving quickly, and so is the way influence is built. It’s no longer enough for brands to be visible. They must be credible, grouped in the right category, and discoverable in places where buyers make decisions. Kerry’s appointment is an important step for Abode as we continue to grow, strengthen our offer and support our clients to lead their categories in a more complex communications environment.”
The appointment coincides with a shift in how hospitality businesses use technology. As AI-powered search and Large Language Models begin to dictate how buyers and investors find information, Abode is focusing on narrative development and category positioning. The agency operates with the support of in-market associates in several key European regions including France, Italy, Spain and the DACH region.
