Human Resources

🏨 G6 Hospitality appointed Krishna Paliwal as president of midscale extended stay. With over 20 years in hospitality, Paliwal previously led La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham. He will drive G6’s midscale extended stay strategy, following the launch of Studio 6 Plus. Paliwal is known for integrating architecture, design, operations, and development for brand growth. He also supports the BSP Education Society, aiding nearly 1,000 young women in northern India.

🏨 Stonebridge, a Denver-based hotel management company, appointed Paul Eckert as COO. Eckert, with over 30 years in hospitality leadership, was previously COO at Trailborn Hotels & Resorts. His career includes roles at Davidson Hospitality Group, Interstate Hotels & Resorts, and Omni Hotels & Resorts. Eckert aims to enhance execution and expand margins at Stonebridge. CEO Rob Smith praised Eckert's operational expertise and commitment to maximizing owner investment value.

📍 Marcus Hotels & Resorts appoints Matt Karow as General Manager of Hilton Madison Monona Terrace in Madison, WI. Karow, with 20+ years of hospitality experience, will manage the 240-room hotel linked to Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. Previously GM at Hotel Heron, VA, he transitioned it to Hilton's Curio Collection in four months. The hotel sits near Lake Monona, close to Madison’s state capitol and cultural attractions.

📑 Raquel Pirola was appointed as commercial director for The Savoy to oversee sales, marketing, revenue management, and brand positioning. With over 20 years of experience at Four Seasons, EssilorLuxottica, and Riverstone Living, she joins as the hotel prepares to unveil newly renovated rooms this summer. Working with managing director Franck Arnold, her role aims to maintain The Savoy's distinctive brand and historic legacy while strengthening its market position.

📈 At Minor Hotels, 84% of their portfolio is owned or leased, focusing on responsibility and long-term value. They emphasize building strong partnerships and empowering properties through commercial strategy, revenue management, operations, and technical services. Joining Minor Hotels offers independent owners and developers opportunities for strategic growth and community support, aiming to create memorable guest experiences.

🏨 Staybridge Suites has appointed RBH Hospitality Management to operate properties in Liverpool and Newcastle, totaling 260 keys. The 128-bed Newcastle and 132-bed Liverpool sites expand RBH's management to over 2,500 rooms in 19 IHG properties across the UK. ParkProperty Europe acquired these hotels at the end of 2025, amid growing demand for extended stays in the UK. This marks RBH's third hotel in Liverpool, enhancing their portfolio in key locations.

🏨 Edyn has appointed three senior executives to support its expansion in Europe. Dan Merchant, from Freehand Hotels and Generator, becomes Chief People Officer, overseeing HR and culture strategy. Dominique Florian, ex-JLL, is the new VP of Development and Design, managing projects and growth in Europe. Darrell Spencer, previously at Generator, is VP of IT, focusing on technology and cybersecurity. Edyn operates 28 properties in eight countries and employs over 500 people.

📈 Ben Underwood and Emma Hamilton-Hewitt have been promoted at Leaf Hospitality as of 2023. Underwood, joining in 2025, is now COO overseeing operations and commercial functions. Hamilton-Hewitt, with the company since 2018, is the new group people and culture manager. Leaf Hospitality is expanding, with a 144-bedroom Hampton by Hilton hotel set to open in Wigan by 2027. These changes aim to support strategic growth led by founder Richard Farrar.

🌐 WTTC announces a new global leadership team, featuring 21 nationalities across five continents, including British, Spanish, Mexican, Saudi Arabian, Indian, Chinese, and Kenyan. Esteban Velásquez Wilhelm and Hon. Najib Balala lead key strategic areas. The team's experience spans over 25 years across travel, hospitality, and tourism policy. WTTC’s main operations are in Madrid, with regional directors in Latin America, North Asia, and South-East Asia.

🏨 Ensemble will manage Hotel Nia, Autograph Collection, in Menlo Park, California, starting May 1, 2026. Situated in the Menlo Gateway, this 250-room hotel offers 21,000 square feet of meeting space. Ensemble oversees 15 hotels across 12 markets, earning over $250 million annually. This move enhances their Northern California presence, aligning with venues like La Bahia Hotel & Spa and Dream Inn Santa Cruz. Ensemble employs over 1,400 people and has 35 years of experience in hospitality management.