Jan Martensen is the Director of Government Sales at Waldorf Astoria Berlin, where he oversees relationships with embassies, government delegations, and international institutions. With extensive experience in hospitality, aviation, and diplomatic relations, he ensures the hotel delivers a seamless blend of trust, discretion, and world-class service. Located near the Zoological Garden, the Waldorf Astoria offers 232 rooms and suites and the Library Lounge with panoramic city views, ideal for high-level diplomatic receptions. A passionate culture and art enthusiast, Jan appreciates Berlin’s rich heritage, often visiting Museum Island, and plays a key role in shaping the city’s luxury hospitality landscape for the international community.
Luxury Meets Diplomacy: Jan Martensen on Hosting the World in Berlin
From your perspective as Director of Government Sales, how has the profile of the visiting international and governmental clientele in Berlin changed over the last two years, and what does this shift mean for luxury hospitality?
Over the past two years, Berlin has grown even more into its role as a true international hub — politically, culturally, and economically. What we notice is a more diverse clientele: delegations from regions that were previously less present, and also a younger generation of decision-makers who bring a different set of expectations to hospitality. For us, this means balancing two things: providing the tradition and reliability that remain essential, while also introducing innovative services that reflect this new dynamic. That balance is what keeps luxury hospitality in Berlin both relevant and forward-looking.
Considering your background in hospitality, aviation, and diplomatic relations, what is the single most critical element—be it discretion, protocol, or a specific service—that the Waldorf Astoria must consistently deliver to remain a trusted partner for high-level international guests?
There are many elements that matter — discretion, protocol, service — but if I had to choose one, it would be trust. Trust is built from discretion, from an uncompromising respect for protocol, and from service that leaves no room for doubt. High-level guests travel the world and experience excellence everywhere. But they return only to those places where they feel understood, protected, and respected. That is exactly what the Waldorf Astoria Berlin stands for: not a single service, but a culture of trust and care that defines the entire experience.
Looking ahead to 2026, what emerging trends or specific areas do you foresee driving the demand for high-end diplomatic events and hospitality services in the growing German capital?
Looking ahead to 2026, we see Berlin becoming a focal point for the conversations that shape our future — from technology and sustainability to security policy. These themes will increasingly define the demand for high-level diplomatic events and hospitality. What is particularly exciting is that diplomacy itself is evolving: it’s no longer just about traditional political encounters, but about dialogue between business, science, and culture. Our role is to create spaces and services that allow this new form of diplomacy to unfold at the highest possible standard.
