Human Resources

🏨 Island Hospitality Management, based in West Palm Beach, Florida, took over management of the 138-suite Homewood Suites by Hilton in Palo Alto, California. The hotel is strategically located near Stanford University and major tech companies like Google and Meta, with proximity to San Jose and San Francisco airports. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool. This addition enhances Island Hospitality's California portfolio, leveraging its expertise in upscale, extended-stay properties.

🏨 Hotel Equities, following the retirement of founder Fred Cerrone in November, expanded into Canada with management of Moxy Vancouver Downtown and Element Vancouver Downtown, opening in 2028. After merging with Springboard Hospitality in May, CEO Ben Rafter and co-chairman Brad Rahinsky are steering the company, emphasizing intentional growth and specialized management across its three divisions. The company seeks growth with capital partners for turnaround opportunities and aims to pair sellers with visionary buyers.

📄 Kristen Millar has been promoted to Chief Brand Officer at NoMad Hotels to oversee global design as the brand expands into Asia and Detroit. With 16 years in hospitality, Millar will guide creative direction, including the opening of NoMad Hilton Singapore later this year and NoMad Detroit in 2027. NoMad, part of Hilton’s luxury portfolio, is focusing on international growth while maintaining a cohesive brand identity. The London outpost opened in 2021.

Seasoned technology executive joins from Sage to lead tech and AI strategy as the business scales its unified platform globally [London & Newton, MA, March 19, 2026] – Access Hospitality, the hospitality…

📍 Stan Iliev is appointed dual general manager of Le Méridien and AC Hotel Denver Downtown. With over 15 years at White Lodging, he started in 2011 at Hilton Garden Inn, Chicago Midway, and has held roles in Chicago, Valparaiso, Louisville, and Nashville. Previously, Iliev was the GM of Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University. The hotels are centrally located in downtown Denver, close to the Colorado Convention Center and other landmarks.

📚 In 2026, the Savoy Educational Trust marks its 65th year by appointing Katharine Le Quesne and Anastasia Bloom to its board of trustees. Le Quesne, managing director of HoCoSo London, brings expertise in hospitality strategy and sustainability. Bloom adds financial and governance skills from her investment banking career. They join existing trustees to support educational projects aimed at enhancing skills in the UK hospitality industry. The Trust focuses on advancing hospitality education and career development.

📄 Outrigger Hospitality Group appointed Stephen Nickerson as VP of Operations for The Americas. Nickerson has leadership experience from Sonesta Hotel Corporation, InterContinental Hotels Group, and Candlewood Suites. Previously, he was SVP of operations at Midas Hospitality, managing a U.S. portfolio. Mike Shaff, EVP of Operations, praised Nickerson's expertise and leadership. This strategic move aims to enhance hotel team performance and guest experience across diverse markets.

📈 Mandy Walker joins Careys Manor in the New Forest as director of sales, bringing 18 years of experience from Rhinefield House and expertise in the MICE sector. Frances Trowbridge-Moore, with the company since May 2024, is promoted to spa manager at SenSpa, leading a team of 31, succeeding Lina Lotto, who retired in 2025. General Manager Steve Woodrow highlights their roles in enhancing guest experience and supporting growth.

🏖 Don Carlos Marbella, located between Marbella and Malaga, will reopen in summer 2025 after a €45 million renovation by Selenta Group. Jorge Manzur, with over 20 years at brands like Le Méridien and Westin, is the new GM. The hotel, part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, offers 284 rooms and 24 residences, with tennis facilities by the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center. Selenta Group aims to enhance its Mediterranean luxury reputation.

🏖 Aimbridge Hospitality EMEA is managing Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel and Spa. The 83-room hotel, near Bournemouth Beach, features five function suites for 200 delegates, a restaurant, lounge bar, and two indoor pools. Located seven miles from Bournemouth Airport, it offers leisure and corporate facilities. Aimbridge, a US-based company, outperformed market benchmarks in late 2025 with a gross operating profit index of 101.8, surpassing competitors by nearly two points.