Booking's KAYAK Appoints New CEO; Co-Founder to Lead AI Initiatives at Parent Co.

Booking Holdings announced a leadership transition at its subsidiary, KAYAK, effective February 3, 2026.

Peer Bueller has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Bueller served as KAYAK's Chief Financial Officer since 2016. He added Chief Operating Officer duties in 2021.

Steve Hafner is transitioning to Executive Chair. Hafner co-founded KAYAK and served as CEO for 22 years.

Hafner will also take a new leadership role at Booking Holdings. He will focus on advancing AI innovation across the company's brands. The transition is a planned move to advance product and AI strategy.