Red Roof Names Zack Gharib as President

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Promotes Red Roof Executive Fouad Malouf to the Newly Created Position of Chief Operating Officer

Zack Gharib, Red Roof President

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Red Roof®, an award-winning leader in the lodging industry, has named hotel industry veteran Zack Gharib as President, effective immediately.

Gharib brings more than two decades of senior management experience in franchising, operations and brand management with companies such as Marriott, Vacasa, LaQuinta by Wyndham and Highgate Homes. He is widely regarded as a hospitality management innovator, having created and launched award-winning development, strategic planning and franchise operations programs over more than two decades of industry leadership.  He joins Red Roof as the company accelerates its growth towards 700 hotels across the U.S., and renews its focus on expanded and deepened franchise relationships.

Red Roof also announced the promotion of Fouad Malouf to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Malouf will support Gharib by overseeing the company’s day-to-day operations, as the company doubles down on the unique culture of service and execution that has made Red Roof the preferred franchise partner for hotel owners across the industry. Having joined the company in 1982, Malouf brings more than four decades of continuous and increasing management responsibility to his new role. He most recently served as Senior Vice President for Franchise Operations.

Mohamed Thowfeek, Member of the Red Roof Board of Directors and Red Roof Interim President, said, “We are happy to welcome Zack Gharib as Red Roof’s new President, an appointment that we are confident will take the brand and its franchise partners to new heights. Zack brings a laser focus on growth and operations excellence to his new role, and has demonstrated his ability to deliver transformative results for some of the most widely regarded brands in the hotel industry.” He concluded, “We look forward to Zack’s immediate positive impact on Red Roof and its franchisees, and also congratulate Fouad Malouf on his promotion to Chief Operating Officer. Fouad brings unmatched knowledge and experience with the Red Roof brand and franchise community, and will work closely with Zack to accelerate the company’s growth and franchising excellence in the months ahead.”

Zack Gharib said, “I am deeply honored and excited to be joining Red Roof as its President at this dynamic and promising moment in the company’s development.”  He continued, “I am passionate about helping owners, franchisees and team members achieve their fullest potential, deliver exceptional guest service, and achieve operational excellence – which I hope will be instrumental in driving Red Roof’s continued growth and success. I look forward to developing a program of focused action and results that will help drive this venerable brand’s growth and transformation for many years to come.”

Gharib is relocating to Columbus, Ohio and will operate out of Red Roof’s corporate headquarters there.

About Red Roof

Red Roof is an award-winning leader in the lodging industry, recognized for creating the innovative Upscale Economy® segment, serving millions of guests each year. Red Roof’s portfolio of brands includes Red Roof Inn® and Red Roof PLUS+®, HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof®, The Red Collection®, and Red Roof’s dual-branded properties. Red Roof has over 60,000 rooms in nearly 700 properties in the U.S. and internationally in Japan. For more information, visit redroof.com or download Red Roof’s free app for iOS and Android devices. To learn about franchising opportunities, visit redrooffranchising.com.

Red Roof’s Vision: To provide the best experience and value in the lodging industry for our guests, owners, team members, partners, and communities.

SOURCE Red Roof

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4.23 Embassy Suites Turns 40!

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Embassy Suites will be celebrating its 40th anniversary, but it’s not relying on the past. Undergoing a dynamic transformation we have Bonnie Campagnuolo to talk about new design innovations, exciting renovations, and the future outlook.

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Designing Wynn Resorts Around The World! Las Vegas! Middle East! NYC?

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We’re at Wynn Studios in Las Vegas with Todd-Avery Lenahan, President and Chief Creative Officer with Wynn Resorts discussing the secrets of building the company’s different projects such as the $3.9 billion under construction Wynn Al Marjam in UAE and the potential $12 billion NYC property.

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stayAPT Suites & Powerhouse Hotels Forge Partnership to Expand Presence with 30 New Locations

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Six Locations to Break Ground in 2024

MATTHEWS, N.C., April 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — stayAPT Suites, the innovative apartment-style hotel brand, is pleased to announce a significant expansion initiative in partnership with Powerhouse Hotels, a joint venture between JCap Realty Group and Cullinan Holdings. This collaboration involves signing a multi-unit development agreement, adding 30 new locations to stayAPT Suites’ portfolio, and expanding the brand footprint to 25 states over the next five years, with six locations that will break ground in 2024.

The strategic alliance between stayAPT Suites and Powerhouse Hotels underscores confidence in the brand’s unique concept of apartment-style accommodations, prioritizing travelers’ comfort, convenience, and value. With 22 operational hotels and a projected total of 40 by the end of 2024, stayAPT Suites is rapidly establishing itself as a premier choice for modern travelers and an attractive franchise opportunity for investors.

Industry veteran Gary A. DeLapp, President & CEO of stayAPT Suites, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with Powerhouse Hotels to expand the reach of stayAPT Suites. This multi-unit development agreement marks a significant milestone in our growth strategy and demonstrates the appeal of our unique apartment-style concept to guests, investors and the franchise community.

Brian Johnson, Managing Partner of Powerhouse Hotels, shared his excitement about the collaboration, saying, “We are excited to partner with stayAPT Suites in this endeavor. The innovative approach of stayAPT Suites, a unique hybrid between multi-family and hotel, aligns perfectly with our vision for investing in hospitality.”

With a focus on new construction, flexible prototype sizes, and a commitment to maintaining a uniform standard across properties, stayAPT Suites stands out in a crowded market. Leading with an owner mindset and boasting corporate-owned and franchise-owned properties, the brand’s highly efficient labor model further enhances operational efficiency.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, stayAPT Suites remains at the forefront, continually setting new standards of excellence. With its broad customer reach, resilient business model, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, stayAPT Suites transcends the traditional concept of extended stay lodging, offering a place to stay and an experience with the conveniences of home.

About stayAPT Suites

stayAPT Suites entered the long-term lodging market with an announcement of its new hotel concept in January 2020. The brand, which will have 40+ hotels open by the end of 2024, offers guests an experience not yet seen in its category. The room layout for each 500+ square-foot suite was intentionally designed to feel residential, with a dedicated living room, a full kitchen, and a separate bedroom. With strong corporate financial backing and an experienced executive team in place, the Matthews, North Carolina-based chain is committed to building a portfolio of corporate-owned hotels, in addition to franchising. Learn more at www.stayAPT.com.

About Powerhouse Hotels

Powerhouse Hotels, a pioneering force in hospitality investment, was born from the visionary collaboration between JCap Realty Group and Cullinan Holdings in 2024. With a commitment to introducing innovation in the hospitality sector, Powerhouse Hotels focuses on identifying and nurturing unique ventures that promise exceptional returns and guest experiences. Embracing a dynamic investment approach, Powerhouse Hotels seeks to cultivate a portfolio of distinctive properties that resonate with modern travelers.

SOURCE stayAPT Suites

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hihotels by Hospitality International Continues Expansion with Eight New Properties

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Company adds Master Hosts Inns near JFK Airport New York and new construction Scottish Inns in Texas

(ATLANTA, April 22, 2024) – hihotels by Hospitality International, a recognized leader in franchising conversion and new-build hotels for economy lodging, expands its family of brands by signing eight new properties in five states.

“We’re excited to continue adding quality owners and properties in key locations throughout the country as our system expands,” said Chris Guimbellot, President and CEO, hihotels. The eight new properties include:

  • •  Master Hosts Inns – Airport Plaza Hotel, Jamaica, NY, 61 rooms, former OYO
  • •  Scottish Inns – Eastex Freeway North, Houston, TX, 29 rooms, new construction
  • •  Scottish Inns, Decatur, TX, 45 rooms, former Best Western
  • •  Scottish Inns, Middletown, PA, 25 rooms, former Rodeway Inn
  • •  Scottish Inns & Suites, Shenandoah/Woodland TX, 39 rooms, former OYO
  • •  Red Carpet Inn, Dumfries, VA, 45 rooms, former Econo Lodge
  • •  Red Carpet Inn, Garfield Heights, OH, 40 rooms, former El Dorado Motel
  • •  Red Carpet Inn & Suites, Philadelphia, PA, 98 rooms, former Motel 6

Thanks to its unique franchising model that delivers customized support, advanced technology, and overall value, hihotels continues attracting more and more hoteliers to its five featured brands.

Guimbellot went on to say, “Our mission is simple: help hoteliers maximize local-market revenue and overall brand value by offering all the resources of a legacy franchise while supporting their independent mindsets to operate their properties as they see fit.”

For more information about franchising with hihotels, visit hifranchise.com, call 800-892-8405, or email sales@hifranchise.com.

About Hospitality International, Inc.

Since 1982, hihotels by Hospitality International, Inc. has offered inexpensive franchising alternatives for hotel owners and developers with five distinct economy brands—Scottish Inns, Red Carpet Inn, Master Hosts Inns, Downtowner Inns, and Passport Inn. hihotels offers franchisees a choice of franchise opportunities to best suit their particular market, geographic area and personal business needs, as well as customized support, advanced technology, and overall value.

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Hilton Announces Dynamic Executive Leadership Team at Waldorf Astoria New York

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Managing Director Luigi Romaniello and Executive Director of Sales Jasmin Howanietz prepare to usher in a new era at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts’ flagship property

NEW YORK – (April 18, 2024) –  Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is delighted to announce a distinguished lineup of luxury hospitality executives joining the 375-room Waldorf Astoria New York, which is expected to reopen its doors later this year following an extensive, multi-year restoration. Leading the team is managing director Luigi Romaniello, and returning to the hotel in a new capacity is executive director of sales Jasmin Howanietz. Romaniello and Howanietz together bring decades worth of expertise to their roles, along with a unique understanding of the luxury landscape.

Managing Director Luigi Romaniello

Romaniello’s illustrious 30-plus year career includes leadership roles at prestigious hotels worldwide, where he has demonstrated exceptional skills in openings, renovations, repositioning and concept development, with a focus on delivering a world-class guest experience. In his new position, Romaniello plays a pivotal role in redefining the next era of Waldorf Astoria New York, further delivering on Conrad Hilton’s vision of this hotel as the “greatest of them all.” In addition to driving plans for the property’s reopening, he is responsible for all aspects of operations for

both the hotel, Waldorf Astoria New York, and Waldorf Astoria Residences New York, the hotel’s newly introduced residences. Romaniello will deliver on the brand’s commitment to providing unforgettable experiences and extraordinary service to guests from around the world and across New York City.

Most recently, he served as managing director at The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel in New York City. Prior to this position, he spent more than 20 years with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, where he led the openings of Rosewood Baha Mar and Rosewood Abu Dhabi Hotel as managing director.

Originally from Rome, Romaniello has a Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Restaurants Management from the University of Houston, and is fluent in Italian and English.

Executive Director of Sales Jasmin Howanietz

With 25 years of sales experience in the hospitality sector, Howanietz has returned to

Waldorf Astoria New York after dedicating more than a decade of her career to commercial leadership positions at the hotel, including director of sales and marketing, director of sales, and director of diplomatic affairs. In her new position at the landmark hotel, Howanietz plays an instrumental role in driving the commercial strategy to establish the hotel as the pinnacle of luxury in Manhattan, further positioning the Waldorf Astoria brand as a global blueprint in top-notch hospitality. 

Howanietz oversees all sales endeavors for the luxury group, leisure and business travel segments, along with New York City’s premier social events. She works closely with the sales and marketing team for Waldorf Astoria Residences New York and is focused on providing exceptional experiences for all guests.

Howanietz holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel-Restaurant/Institutional Management from Johnson & Wales University and she attended the Hotel Management School of Salzburg in Austria. She is fluent in English, German and Spanish.

With Romaniello at the helm, Waldorf Astoria New York is poised for its next chapter of excellence, further solidifying its status as a global beacon of luxury hospitality. In addition to Howanietz, the executive team includes:

A beacon of timeless glamour and luxury for more than a century, Waldorf Astoria New York has always been the place to be in New York City. Following an extensive restoration, Waldorf Astoria New York will launch a new era for the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand and for luxury hospitality in New York City, positioning the hotel as one of the most anticipated hotel re-openings the city has ever witnessed. The 375-room hotel will feature some of Manhattan’s largest rooms and suites, more than 43,000 square feet of unparalleled event space totaling 17 hosting spaces, and one of the largest spas in New York City – spanning more than 30,000 square feet. Inspired by the hotel’s classic grandeur, designer Pierre-Yves Rochon set out to balance modern comfort with Art Deco opulence – blending the old and the new, the European and the American. Honoring Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to culinary excellence, the timeless property will also feature a signature restaurant and food and beverage offerings throughout select landmarked heritage spaces.

Atop the reimagined property, Waldorf Astoria Residences New York will introduce an unprecedented residential lifestyle on Park Avenue, featuring 375 expertly designed private residences with interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot, exclusive amenities and an art collection curated by art collector and auctioneer Simon de Pury.

Once reopened, the luxury property will participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s world-class brands.

Waldorf Astoria New York is located at 301 Park Avenue New York, New York 10022. For hotel sales inquiries, please contact WaldorfAstoriaNewYork@hilton.com. Follow along on Instagram at @waldorfnyc and on Facebook at @TheWaldorf.

Read more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at Stories.Hilton.com.

Waldorf Astoria New York

For nearly a century, Waldorf Astoria New York has been a fixture of New York City society, earning its place as a beacon of radiance in the cultural capital of the world. Following an extensive restoration spearheaded by renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, the property will retain the scale and beauty of the original Art Deco architecture reimagined with fresh contemporary furnishings that pay homage to the original Waldorf Astoria New York. The 375-room hotel will feature some of Manhattan’s largest rooms and suites that will embody the spirit of New York. Above the hotel will sit 375 private residences, ranging from studios to four bedrooms, with interiors designed by Jean-Louis Deniot. Residents will have access to 50,000 square feet of exclusive amenities and an art collection curated by Swiss collector and auctioneer Simon de Pury. Hotel guests, residents, and visitors will have access to holistic wellness program, including a spa spanning over 30,000 square feet and a state-of-the-art fitness center, unmatched culinary offerings with a standout signature restaurant, and 43,000 square feet of modernized event space including a striking new opera-inspired Grand Ballroom set to be the crown jewel of New York City’s entertainment scene. Visit waldorfastorianewyork.com for more information or follow the hotel on Instagram at @waldorfnyc and on Facebook at @TheWaldorf.

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning portfolio of more than 30 iconic properties that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to sincerely elegant service, one-of-a-kind experiences and culinary mastery in landmark destinations around the world. Inspired by their timeless environments, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver an effortless experience seamlessly, creating a true sense of place for guests through stunning architecture, Peacock Alley, refined art collections, Michelin-starred dining and elevated in-room amenities. In addition to the brand’s world-class hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a global residential portfolio that provides the comfort of a private home combined with unsurpassed amenities and high-touch service. Waldorf Astoria is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience an unforgettable stay at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by booking at waldorfastoria.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow the brand on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.   

 

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising more than 7,500 properties and nearly 1.2 million rooms, in 126 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for seven consecutive years. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 180 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

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Brightline Breaks Ground in Nevada on High-Speed Train Line

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Company’s Brightline West project plans high-speed passenger service to cut travel time in half between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, in time for the 2028 Olympics.

LAS VEGAS – The railroad Brightline today breaks ground in Nevada on its new Brightline West project, which will use trains traveling up to 200 miles per hour to cut the travel time between Las Vegas and Los Angeles in half. The company already operates successful trains between Miami and Orlando, and aims to launch Brightline West service in time for the 2028 Olympics.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, along with other federal, state, and local officials, joins Brightline founder Wes Edens in Las Vegas to hammer the first spike for Brightline’s latest project. The company already operates 16 passenger trains per day in each direction between Miami and Orlando. For Brightline West, California and Nevada have granted Brightline a right of way alongside Interstate 15, and in December, the U.S. DOT augmented private investment in the project with $3 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Rick Harnish, executive director of the High Speed Rail Alliance, a national nonprofit organization, is personally attending the groundbreaking.

“This is a transformational investment in American trains,” Harnish says. “Getting a high-speed line in operation this decade will show Americans this terrific way to travel. If you have ever felt frustrated by traffic gridlock or airport hassles, a better future just got closer.”

“It’s urgent that we plan to bring these benefits to every region of our country,” Harnish says. “Just as the United States did for the Interstate Highway System, we need to establish a federal railway program that coordinates and supports the development of great train service. This means a combination of high-speed backbones, connected with regional rail networks to give people throughout the country the option to use fast, frequent, affordable trains.”

Alongside Brightline West, other American high-speed rail projects are under construction or in development.

The California High Speed Rail Authority has more than 100 miles of a high-speed line under construction. California’s project will connect the Bay Area to Los Angeles, via the state’s populous Central Valley.

Additionally, Amtrak recently partnered with Texas Central to help advance the planning and analysis for a high-speed line between Dallas and Houston. Other important projects for high-speed service are also under development in places such as the Pacific Northwest, Georgia, and North Carolina.

The High Speed Rail Alliance is especially focused on Illinois, home to the Chicago rail hub. Midwestern states do not yet have active plans to build high-speed rail, but advocates are making progress. Harnish serves on the Illinois High-Speed Railway Commission, which has begun considering options for high-speed trains between Chicago and St. Louis. In 2021, the Federal Railroad Administration’s Midwest Regional Rail Plan shared a vision for fast, frequent train service on pillar lines throughout this densely populated region of the country.

For more details, contact the High Speed Rail Alliance at info@hsrail.org or (773) 334-6758, and see:

High-Speed Rail 101

Brightline West

California High-Speed Rail

Amtrak to Partner with Texas Central on Dallas-to-Houston High-Speed Line

FRA’s New Midwest Regional Rail Plan

Fast Track Illinois

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FNA 134: Sphere and Loathing in Las Vegas

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Glenn is in Las Vegas seeing a bunch of concerts so he’s sure to be in a good mood. Expect a full report on seeing a concert at The Sphere and more with Glenn, Craig and Producer Dave.

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AI Set to Shape the Future of Travel & Tourism, Says WTTC

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New York, U.S. (April 18, 2024): New reports from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft highlights the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in shaping the future of Travel & Tourism. 

The final two reports of a series on Artificial Intelligence from WTTC entitled “Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI): Overview of AI Risks, Safety & Governance” and “Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies & Regulations,” underscore a commitment to a digital future that prioritizes safety, ethical considerations, and responsible AI adoption.

Launched during the global tourism body’s participation at the UN General Assembly in New York, these reports mark significant milestones in WTTC’s mission to promote innovation and excellence in customer experiences through the safe and trustworthy integration of AI.

“Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI)” delves into the potential risks associated with AI deployment and offers strategies for establishing frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, and fairness. 

From addressing bias and discrimination to ensuring human oversight of AI systems, this report empowers organizations to harness the power of AI responsibly.

In the fourth and final installment, “Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies & Regulations,” WTTC provides a detailed overview of the AI ecosystem across key countries and international organizations. 

It shows how policymakers are navigating the AI landscape and shaping regulations and strategies to foster AI innovation, while ensuring its ethical and responsible use.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “In a rapidly evolving landscape, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change. The insights provided in these reports demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement; it is a strategic tool that can personalize customer experiences, drive sustainable improvements, and shape the future of Travel & Tourism.

“AI is already being used across our sector with incredible results. Several major hotel groups including Iberostar are using AI to monitor and reduce food waste, which recently resulted not only in a 27% cost saving but prevented thousands of kilos of unwanted food going to landfill. “ 

Julie Shainock, Managing Director, Travel, Transport, & Logistics Industry for Microsoft said: “We are seeing AI being embraced across the entire travel eco-system enhancing the customer experience, the employee experience and also driving more efficiency in operations, but we know we are only at the beginning of the journey.

“We are excited to see what the future holds as AI becomes more widely adopted to automate the more mundane tasks of travel and harness the true spirit of travel, to elevate the human experience.”

According to WTTC, AI has the power to revolutionize how businesses in the Travel & Tourism sector operate, offering immense opportunities for growth and innovation.

Both reports underscore the urgent need for Travel & Tourism businesses to embrace AI as a strategic priority, investing in talent and fostering collaboration between humans and AI. 

But despite the sector’s increasing recognition of AI’s potential, challenges such as AI-skilled workforce shortages in the Travel & Tourism sector persist, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to overcome barriers to adoption.

As AI continues to reshape the world, WTTC remains at the forefront, advocating for safe, ethical, and inclusive AI innovation. 

To access these reports, please visit WTTC’s Research Hub

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Davidson Hospitality Group Celebrates Growth with Multiple Promotions

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Accomplished leaders across organization promoted to elevated roles

ATLANTA, April 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Award-winning hospitality management company Davidson Hospitality Group announces promotions of several leaders across the Company as part of Davidson’s long-term growth plan.

“It’s always special when we can announce the career progression of our team members,” said Thom Geshay, CEO & President. “Supporting our growth by promoting team members from within is the life blood of our company. A critical factor in our industry leading team member engagement and low turnover is our team-first philosophy of not just being a place to work, but a company where you can advance your career. It’s the key ingredient to our culture.”

Steve Margol, Davidson’s Chief Investment Officer, will transition to Executive Chairman, effective January 1, 2025, coinciding with the transition of Davidson’s current Executive Chairman and former CEO, John Belden, to Chairman Emeritus at the end of 2024.

In his role as Executive Chairman, Margol will focus on the successful launch of Davidson’s strategic growth plan, working alongside Davidson executive leadership and ownership, and will continue to provide strategic oversight and guidance to both the Company and the acquisitions and business development effort with Jason Rabidoux overseeing day to day leadership of the team.

Jason Rabidoux, previously Senior Vice President within the Acquisitions and Business Development team, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Acquisitions and Business Development. Since joining the Davidson family in 2013, Rabidoux has played an integral role in the growth of Davidson’s portfolio of hotels and resorts. Under his leadership, the portfolio has grown by more than 50 hotels and resorts, with the team directly involved in over $2B in real estate acquisitions alongside Davidson’s public and private partners.

Josie Strang, who joined Davidson in 2018 as a financial analyst on the Acquisitions and Business Development team, has been promoted to Vice President. During her time with Davidson, Strang has made numerous valuable contributions and has been a strong collaborator and leader on many acquisitions and transitions. In her new role, she will take on greater responsibility for new management and acquisition opportunities and will help to develop junior members of the team.

Paul Eckert, who joined as Senior Vice President of Operations, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations, overseeing a portfolio of complex assets. In just over three years with Davidson, Eckert has demonstrated a superior ability to drive performance and build strong teams. In his new role, Eckert will focus on shaping and strengthening teams and processes for exceptional results within his portfolio.

Lucas Laidlaw, previously Regional Director of Operations, has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Operations, working within the portfolio led by Paul Eckert. Since joining Davidson in 2021, Laidlaw has driven exceptional results for the collective balanced scorecard and has spearheaded the implementation of Davidson’s operational playbook within his region, a critical tool leading to superior operational execution. As Regional Vice President, he will be directly responsible for results within his portfolio and will be joining the Curator Hotels & Resorts board.

Thomas Fraher, formerly Area Vice President of Operations for the Florida region within Davidson Resorts, has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Operations and will oversee the eastern region within Davidson Resorts. In his new role, Fraher is responsible for guiding the operation of multiple complex resorts in the Eastern United States.

Today’s promotions exemplify Davidson’s focus on team member development and long-term strategic thinking, both of which are critical to Davidson being not just the leading hospitality management company, but one of the most sought after employers in the industry.

About Davidson Hospitality Group
Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024, Davidson Hospitality Group is an award-winning, full-service hospitality management company comprised of 86 existing hotels and resorts; more than 200 restaurants, bars, and lounges; and over 2 million square feet of meeting space across the United States. A trusted partner and preferred operator for Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Kimpton, Margaritaville, and Nobu, Davidson offers a unique entrepreneurial management style and owners’ mentality that provides the individualized personal service of a small company, enhanced by the breadth and depth of skill and experience of a larger company. In keeping with the company’s heritage of delivering value, Davidson Hospitality Group is comprised of four highly specialized operating verticals: Davidson Hotels, Pivot, Davidson Resorts and Davidson Restaurant Group. In 2023, Davidson Hospitality Group was ranked #1 in Guest Satisfaction among Third-Party Hotel Management Companies by J.D. Power for the second consecutive year. For more information, visit www.davidsonhospitality.com. Follow us on Instagram: @davidsonhospitality and X: @DavidsonHospGrp. Like us on Facebook: @DavidsonHospitalityGroup. Connect with us on LinkedIn: @DavidsonHospitalityGroup. #DavidsonHospitality

SOURCE Davidson Hospitality Group

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