Exclusive Insight: Roberto Pelliccia on the Future of Hospitality Technology and Screenage’s Role in Transforming Guest Experiences

In the fast-evolving world of hospitality technology, Roberto Pelliccia stands out as a transformative figure. As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and alumnus of the Cornell School of Hotel Administration, Roberto has over 30 years of global experience in the hospitality sector. His expertise spans project management, development, operations, asset management, and interim leadership, making him an invaluable asset to organizations navigating complex transformations.

Currently based in Kigali, Rwanda, Roberto serves as Director of Asset Management, Business Development, and Operations for a private family office. In this role, he oversees a diverse portfolio of hospitality, real estate, and leisure assets. This includes spearheading ecotourism projects, launching luxury dining concepts, and mentoring teams to achieve operational excellence. Additionally, he collaborates as a Business Development Consultant for Screenage Limited, where he leverages his deep industry knowledge to promote cutting-edge ICT solutions across Sub-Saharan East and West Africa.

Roberto’s ability to manage projects from conceptualization to execution has driven his success in roles ranging from general manager to CEO. His impact is evident in pre-opening strategies, rebranding efforts, and operational turnarounds across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Americas. 

At Screenage Limited https://screenage.mu/, Roberto is part of a team that’s dedicated to bringing cutting-edge ICT solutions to hotels and other sectors, including healthcare, airports, and residential complexes. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Mauritius as a subsidiary of the Currimjee Group https://www.currimjee.com/, Screenage specializes in managed services that embrace design, build, and support processes, helping organizations achieve their digital goals with a focus on foresight, integrity, and innovation.

This interview explores Roberto’s insights into how Screenage is addressing the challenges of the modern hospitality sector. From personalized guest experiences to AI-powered networking solutions, Roberto discusses the company’s role in shaping the future of digital transformation in the industry.

Q. Can you please introduce yourself and your role at Screenage Limited?

Roberto: Certainly! I’m Roberto Pelliccia, the Business Development Consultant for Sub-Saharan East and West Africa at Screenage Limited, and concurrently, I serve as Director of Asset Management for a private family office in Rwanda. I have over 30 years of global experience in hospitality, having held positions such as General Manager, CEO, Director of Operations, Consultant, and Asset Manager. I’ve been living in Rwanda for over two years, with prior experience African Experience for 5 years in Zambia, Uganda, and Malawi, and nearly ten years in Mauritius. My extensive background has given me a deep understanding of the operational challenges that hoteliers face in the continent, and my role at Screenage is focused on delivering ICT solutions tailored to enhance hotel operations, guest experiences, and other sectors like large residences, clinics, hospitals, airports, schools and universities, co-working offices and malls across the region.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges hoteliers face today in terms of technology?

Roberto: One of the biggest challenges is providing seamless digital experiences for guests while managing operational efficiency. In a world where guests expect flawless connectivity, personalized services, and secure environments, many hoteliers find it hard to keep up with these demands. Additionally, they face the challenge of operating with fewer resources due to staffing shortages or rising operational costs. This is where Screenage’s technology solutions come into play, helping both guest satisfaction and operational excellence.

Q. How does Screenage Limited address the need for better guest digital experiences in hotels?

Roberto: Screenage enhances digital experiences through personalized in-room technologies and frictionless guest access systems. From smart TVs and integrated room controls to mobile check-ins and room access via smartphones, we ensure that guests can enjoy seamless connectivity and customized services. This digital journey also applies to large residences, hospitals, airports, and co-working office facilities, making our solutions versatile beyond just the hotel sector.

Q. Can you explain how AI-powered networking can improve hotel operations?

Roberto: AI-powered networking is transformative for hotels. It delivers high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi that’s crucial for both guests and back-office operations. AI optimizes the network, ensuring guests have fast connections even during peak times. It also predicts and resolves issues before they impact guests, reducing operational disruptions and enhancing overall efficiency without increasing staff workloads—vital for operations ranging from hotels to airports and residential complexes.

Q. Security is a major concern for hoteliers today, particularly with guest data. How does Screenage support this?

Roberto: Screenage takes data security very seriously. We offer robust network security infrastructure that protects both business operations and guest data. From firewalls to encryption protocols and real-time monitoring, our solutions prevent data breaches and unauthorized access. These security measures are applicable not just in hotels but also in hospitals, clinics, and residential complexes, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations across sectors.

Q. How can Screenage’s technology solutions help hotels operate efficiently with fewer team members?

Roberto: Our solutions are designed to streamline operations. Automated systems for check-ins, room control, and personalized services allow hotels to offer top-notch experiences without the need for large staff. AI-driven platforms help with housekeeping management, predictive maintenance, and guest interaction, enabling efficiency and reducing manual tasks. This approach can be easily adapted for other sectors like schools, universities, and large residential complexes, where operational efficiency is key.

Q. What are some of the key benefits hoteliers can expect from Screenage’s business analytics tools?

Roberto: Our business analytics tools offer insights into guest behavior, preferences, and overall operational performance. Hoteliers can use this data to make informed decisions, such as adjusting staffing during peak times or offering personalized promotions. These tools also extend to other sectors—whether it’s optimizing services in hospitals or tracking resource usage in large residences or malls, the insights lead to improved efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Q. How do Screenage’s solutions help hoteliers stay competitive in today’s market?

Roberto: In today’s competitive landscape, guest experience is a key differentiator. Screenage helps hoteliers stay ahead by providing cutting-edge technology that enhances the guest journey, from the moment of booking to check-out. Our solutions improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver the modern digital experiences guests expect. This not only applies to hotels but also extends to sectors like co-working office facilities and schools, allowing organizations to stay competitive.

Q. What role does scalability play in the solutions Screenage provides?

Roberto: Scalability is crucial for any organization looking to grow. Screenage’s solutions are fully scalable, which means they can be adapted for boutique hotels, large resorts, or even residential complexes, clinics, or airports. Whether it’s expanding Wi-Fi coverage or integrating new digital guest experiences, our technology scales up or down based on the needs of the property, offering flexibility for long-term growth.

Q. How do you work with hotels to tailor your solutions to their specific needs?

Roberto: We begin with a thorough assessment of the hotel’s operations, guest needs, and pain points. Based on that, we create a customized plan to meet specific goals, whether it’s enhancing guest experience or improving operational efficiency. We closely collaborate with hotel teams throughout implementation, ensuring seamless integration and ongoing support. This tailored approach works equally well for clinics, schools, and large residential complexes.

Q. What is the best way for hotels to reach out to Screenage if they are interested in exploring your solutions further?

Roberto: Hoteliers or any organization interested in enhancing operations and guest experiences can reach out directly to me. I’m always available for a conversation to understand their specific challenges and how Screenage can help. They can contact me via email roberto@screenage.mu or LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/roberto-pelliccia – https://www.linkedin.com/company/screenagelimited/ – I’ll be happy to schedule a consultation and presentation.