Human Resources

📈 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.

🏨 Ensemble has taken over management of Hotel Nia, Autograph Collection, in Menlo Park, CA. Opening in 2018, this hotel is part of the Menlo Gateway project in Silicon Valley. It features 250 rooms, over 21,000 sq ft of meeting space, and more. Ensemble aims to enhance guest experience and expand its presence in Northern California, where it manages several luxury properties. The hotel is close to major tech campuses like Meta.

🌳 Under Canvas appoints Noah Brodsky as CEO, succeeding Matt Gaghen, who transitions to executive chairman until end of 2026. Under Canvas expanded to 17 locations, launching ULUM and the Outdoor Collection. Brodsky brings over 20 years of experience, previously at Lindblad Expeditions and Travel + Leisure Co. In April, Under Canvas opened its first California site in Yosemite; plans to open in New Hampshire's White Mountains in June 2026.

🏖️ Noah Brodsky was appointed CEO of Under Canvas in Denver, Colorado, succeeding Matt Gaghen, who served since 2020. Gaghen will become executive chairman until the end of 2026, then join the Board of Directors. Under Canvas has expanded to 17 destinations, launching ULUM, a luxury outdoor brand. Brodsky, with over 20 years in hospitality including roles at Lindblad Expeditions and Travel + Leisure Co., aims to enhance meaningful, place-based travel experiences.

📈 Terry Kline, Executive VP of Franchise Development at My Place Hotels, will retire in May after 40+ years in hospitality. He joined the brand at its inception, leading franchise growth for 12 years. Kline's history with the Rivett Organization dates to the mid-1980s, contributing to brands like Super 8 and Settle Inn. His legacy includes team-building and fostering relationships. The Rivett Organization and My Place Hotels commend his dedication and leadership.

🏨 Terry Kline will retire from My Place Hotels of America at the end of May after 40+ years in the hospitality industry. Over his career, he sold over 800 franchise units. He joined My Place Hotels from its inception, leading franchise development for 12 years. His career began with The Rivett Organization in the mid-1980s, contributing to Super 8 Motel's expansion. Kline's leadership emphasized relationships and culture, leaving a lasting impact on the organization.

🏨 Concord Hospitality promoted Craig Haas to Regional Vice President of Lifestyle and Luxury Hotels. Haas, who joined Concord in January 2018, will oversee 30+ lifestyle and boutique hotels across North America. Reporting to SVP Ben Haller, Haas aims to enhance experiential luxury services. His career includes senior roles at Starwood and Hyatt. COO Will Loughran emphasizes that Haas's expertise will bolster their expanding luxury segment, enhancing guest experiences and long-term value.

🏨 Vision Hospitality Group recently appointed Chris Feaster as general manager and Andrew Burditt as food & beverage manager at Moxy Boulder University Hill, located near the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Feaster previously managed Moxy Cherry Creek in Denver and Marriott SpringHill Suites in Longmont. Burditt offers 24+ years in culinary and event management, with experience in organizing diverse events. Both aim to elevate guest experiences and strengthen ties with the University Hill community.