Human Resources

🏨 Rahul Patel was appointed as the 36th Chairman of AAHOA for the 2026–2027 term, assuming the role after AAHOACON26 on April 10, 2026, in Philadelphia. His theme, "Strong Roots, Stronger AAHOA," emphasizes member engagement, addressing insurance costs, and improving education. Elected Secretary in 2023, Patel aims to enhance profitability and fairness for members. AAHOA President Laura Lee Blake commended his leadership and focus on advocacy and diversity within the hotel industry.

💼 Out of Eden, established in 1993 in Cumbria, is expanding its UK sales team to 25 members, appointing 5 new regional representatives. This expansion, driven by customer demand, includes Wilson Digby’s February appointment for London and South East, covering Central London, Kent, Essex, Buckinghamshire, and Hampshire. The company serves over 20,000 customers, offering 2,000+ products. Upcoming events include The Short Stay Summit on 22 April and The Independent Hotel Show on 5-6 October.

🏨 Alexandro Della Croce becomes Chief Commercial Officer of a 34-hotel portfolio, following a Rome-based hotel group acquisition and UK sales office opening. With over 20 years of experience, he aims to integrate Sales, Revenue, and Events for strategic consistency. The shift reflects industry trends toward unifying pricing, distribution, and events, crucial for controlling rising costs and the growing TRevPAR importance. Starhotels seeks to solidify its position as Italy’s top private hotel group.

🏨 Columbia Hospitality expanded its management portfolio by adding Hotel Grand Stark in Portland, Oregon, on April 1. The boutique hotel, featuring 57 rooms, is housed in a century-old building and reopened in 2021 after renovation. The property, located near downtown Portland, now includes the on-site Little Bitter Bar. This expands Columbia Hospitality's presence in the Pacific Northwest, complementing its wide array of hospitality properties across the U.S.

📍 Nicolas Schell will become The Savoy's director of food and beverage, overseeing restaurants and bars as of 2024. Schell's prior roles include head of London Trade Sales at Moët Hennessy and collaboration with Gordon Ramsay Restaurants. Previously, he worked at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. The Gallery and Scoff were launched in 2024. Schell's appointment reflects The Savoy's strategy to innovate its culinary offerings, continuing its prestigious legacy in London's vibrant dining scene.

📅 In 2026, the HSMAI Foundation, led by Chair Amanda G. Voss, will focus on expanding education and career development in global hospitality. The new Executive Committee includes Noreen Henry as Vice Chair and Lexy Coley as Treasurer. The Foundation aims to enhance workforce agility and competitiveness through academic partnerships, scholarships, and updated certification programs. Outgoing Chair Lori Kiel is recognized for her contributions. The Board consists of experts like Brian Hicks and Kristie Goshow.

🏨 Hilton names Scott Berger general manager of Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. Berger, with over 20 years of luxury hospitality experience, recently managed the new Peninsula London. Previously, he oversaw EOS Hospitality's West Coast portfolio. Berger began his career at The Peninsula Beverly Hills, advancing to hotel manager over 15 years. In civic roles, he chaired the Beverly Hills CVB (2023-24) and was a board member of the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce (2020-24).

🏨 Kenji Bourquin-Quéva has been appointed as the general manager of Sanderson London as of September 2025. With over 10 years in hospitality, he previously managed the hotel's operations, overseeing 150 rooms and 130 staff. His career includes roles at St Martins Lane London, Butterfly Hospitality Group, Kempinski, and InterContinental. He aims to enhance commercial performance and guest experience during a refurbishment phase.

🏨 The Grand Hotel in York appoints Shekhar Grover as the new manager, bringing 17 years of luxury hospitality experience. The hotel features 207 rooms, two restaurants, and a £2.8m spa. Grover, previously with Royal Caribbean and Fairmont St Andrews, aims to enhance guest experiences and support sustainable practices. The hotel is part of the Splendid Hospitality Group.

🏨 Frits Potgieter was appointed as CEO of The Chesway Collection in 2022, after serving as general manager of The Montenotte in Cork. The collection seeks to align its properties, including The Montenotte, The Woodland Suite Experience, and The Wilder Townhouse in Dublin, under a shared vision. Potgieter, with over 20 years of luxury sector experience, leads the launch of The Montenotte's Signature Collection this April, adding 36 rooms to the estate.