SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 28, 2025 – The hospitality sector continues to evolve with significant leadership changes announced this week. From executive promotions to strategic appointments, the industry is seeing a dynamic shift in its personnel landscape.
Executive Leadership and Commercial Growth
HRI Hospitality has made a strategic move by appointing Lior Sekler as its first chief commercial officer.1 Sekler will spearhead the company’s newly formed Commercial Services Organization, with a focus on “driving revenue growth.” This appointment signals HRI Hospitality's commitment to expanding its commercial footprint.
Agilysys, Inc. has expanded its leadership team with the appointment of Dan Bell as vice president, North America sales east—hotels, resorts, and cruises.2 This newly created role emphasizes Agilysys' focus on “PMS and POS growth” within the hospitality sector.
Reeco has strengthened its sales and customer experience division by appointing Paul Bennie as vice president.3 Bennie, formerly vice president of strategic accounts at Actabl, brings extensive industry experience to his new role.4
Operational Excellence and Guest Experience
McNeill Hotel Company has announced the promotion of Jesse Kremer to the new position of vice president of hotel operations.5 Kremer, previously regional director of operations, will focus on “leading regional teams and associate satisfaction.”6
At Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC, Marlena Karwowski has been appointed general manager.7 Karwowski’s extensive background includes roles such as general manager and task force manager of sales, demonstrating her comprehensive understanding of hotel operations.8
Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts has appointed Jeffery Modaff as general manager.9 Modaff will oversee “daily hotel operations while ensuring positive guest experiences across the property.”10
Hotel Viata has promoted Vincent Lesage, former corporate food and beverage director, to general manager.11 Lesage, who has supported Hotel Viata’s operations since December 2024, will now lead the property.
Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth has welcomed back Thibaut Asso as resort manager.12 In this role, Asso will oversee the resort’s “daily operations.”
Culinary Innovation and Food & Beverage Leadership
The ART Hotel Denver, Curio Collection by Hilton, has appointed Tharon Weighill as executive chef of FIRE Restaurant & Lounge.13 Weighill will be responsible for “updating the kitchen into a high-energy space.”14
Hotel del Coronado has named Brian Archibald as executive chef.15 Archibald will oversee “culinary operations at the resort and lead the property’s culinary teams across all concepts.”
The Horse Shoe Farm has appointed Brett Suess as chef de cuisine of The Silo Cookhouse.16 Suess, with experience at Asheville restaurants like Sovereign Remedies and Chattooga Club, will lead the resort’s signature restaurant.17
JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa has appointed Eric Duchene as director of food and beverage.18 Duchene, who has served as executive chef at the property since 2022, will now oversee the resort’s food and beverage operations.
Alila Ventana Big Sur has announced the appointments of Giuseppe Marchesini as director of food and beverage and Andrew Lauer as executive chef.19 Marchesini will lead the resort’s “culinary department,” and Lauer will manage “food and beverage outlets.”
The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa and The Sheraton Stonebriar Hotel have appointed Jamel Taggart as area director of food and beverage and Dannie Lirette-Wallas as area director of catering.20 Taggart and Lirette-Wallas will oversee the food and beverage and catering operations, respectively, at both properties.21
Financial and Business Development
Lodging Dynamics Hospitality Group has promoted Dan Applegate to vice president of finance and Nick Vitolano to director of business development.22 These promotions reflect the company’s growth and strategic focus.
Gracious Hospitality Management has announced executive appointments including Josh Omin as chief financial officer and Oneca Maffei as vice president of people and culture, strengthening its leadership team.23
Industry Association Leadership
The U.S. Travel Association has announced that William J. Hornbuckle, chief executive officer and president of MGM Resorts International, has been selected as national chair of the association’s board of directors.24
General Management and Property Leadership
Casetta has announced the appointment of Anthony Gutierrez as general manager of Hotel Lucile and Santiago LaRoche as general manager of Hotel Willa.25 These appointments will enhance the operational efficiency and guest experience at both properties.
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