Human Resources

📄 Rutland Hall Hotel and Spa appointed James Hiley-Jones as non-executive director. With over 30 years in hospitality and as managing director at Greenclose Hotels, Hiley-Jones enhances operations at the 70-acre Rutland Water resort. The hotel features rooms, lodges, Blossoms restaurant, a 22-meter indoor pool, gym, and spa. His Freedom of the City of London award highlights his sector contributions, supporting Rutland Hall's strategic expansion.

🍳 Phil Kearsey has been appointed executive chef at Morston Hall in Norfolk, succeeding Galton Blackiston, who led since 1992. Kearsey, with 18 years of fine dining experience, has worked at The Waterside Inn, The French Laundry, and Pied à Terre. Morston Hall has held a Michelin star for over 25 years. The hotel, a 17th-century property, was acquired by Henry Elworthy in April 2025, planning a refurbishment in early 2026. Kearsey aims to highlight Norfolk produce.

🌍 Kara Wallace, after 17 years at Royal Caribbean, was promoted to CMO, leading a brand evolution and gaining 7.5M+ followers. Caroline Clayton, CMO at American Airlines, is modernizing AA through initiatives like the “Going for Great” campaign. Raja Rajamannar at Mastercard is integrating payments with travel experiences, highlighted by a recent Formula One event in Singapore. Alex Schellenberger, at Mandarin Oriental, focuses on building emotional connections. Mark Weinstein at Hilton Worldwide is enhancing personalized experiences globally.

💰 Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: Michele Allen departs, prompting financial leadership restructuring. The company maintains its operational continuity and reaffirms its full-year guidance.

📈 Christine Sikes has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer at Direct Travel. With over 35 years in the travel industry and 11 years at Direct Travel, she will focus on service execution, efficiency, and profitable growth. Formerly the Executive VP of Customer Experience, Sikes aims to enhance client service and operational efficiency. Her previous roles include VP positions at CWT, managing U.S. Military and Government client relationships.

🏨 The Kessler Collection partners with Highgate to form a management platform, Kessler Hospitality. Highgate will manage Kessler properties such as Casa Monica Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, and Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville. Kessler staff will join Highgate’s new division, blending Kessler’s creativity with Highgate’s operational expertise to enhance luxury hospitality standards.

🏨 Crescent Hotels & Resorts has been chosen to manage The Westin Great Southern Columbus, a historic hotel in downtown Columbus, Ohio. Originally built in 1897, the hotel is owned by Whitestone Companies. It features 188 guestrooms and suites, alongside over 13,000 square feet of meeting space. Located near key attractions like the Ohio Statehouse and the Brewery District, it also houses Bar Cicchetti, an Italian restaurant. This transition enhances Crescent's footprint in the Columbus area.