Abe Liao, an esteemed leader in the luxury and lifestyle hospitality industry, has been appointed Managing Director at the famed Watergate Hotel. With an impressive track record in overseeing premier properties and guiding operations to new heights, Liao brings a wealth of experience, insight, and passion to this iconic property.
Previously, Liao served as Vice President of Operations at Aimbridge Hospitality, where he oversaw up to 20 hotels across the continental United States, with a specialization in Independent and Soft-Branded Hotels. This diverse portfolio spanned luxury and lifestyle products in major metropolitan markets including Sedona, Dallas, New Orleans and Boston. Liao’s expertise in financial planning, guest experience, and operational management helped position these properties as leading destinations in the competitive hospitality industry.
Prior to Aimbridge, Liao was Regional General Manager at Lore Group in Washington, D.C., overseeing both Riggs Washington DC and Lyle Washington DC. During his tenure, he led Riggs DC to numerous accolades, including its inclusion in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotel Awards and Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. His leadership also played a crucial role in establishing Lyle DC as a top-rated soft-deco hotel in Dupont Circle, earning the #1 spot on TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for Hottest New Hotels in 2022.
Liao’s career is underscored by a deep commitment to community and hospitality excellence. As a sitting member of the Board of Directors for the Hotel Association of Washington DC, he continues to contribute to the local hospitality landscape.
“I am excited to join The Watergate Hotel and continue my journey in creating exceptional guest experiences while driving operational success,” said Liao. “It is a privilege to work with such a historic property and a dedicated team that is focused on delivering outstanding service in this vibrant and dynamic industry.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Liao remains actively involved in the local community. A native Washingtonian, Liao currently resides in Arlington, Virginia, and enjoys road cycling, cooking, and spending time with his family and their rescue dog, Izzy.
