Human Resources

🏨 Jens Gmiat rejoins Ruby Group to support its global expansion and manage operations, commercial strategy, and culture. With over 30 years in hospitality, including leadership at HotelCo51 and Criterion Hospitality, he now assumes oversight during Daniella Boeken's maternity leave. Ruby Group, guided by CEO Michael Struck, is strengthening its leadership with Fabian Zellinger and Martin Zilkens joining as managing directors, aligning with their Lean Luxury philosophy and international growth objectives.

📈 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—HHM Hotels restructured its leadership to boost growth and owner relations. New executive vice presidents of operations include Cathy O’Brien, Hiram Negron, Doug Wilkins, and Ray Perez. Marsha Ray oversees Canadian operations. Raul Moronta joins as chief revenue officer in late 2024. Lindsey Johnson becomes senior vice president, head of sales. The changes aim to unify revenue management and enhance support for on-property teams.

💼 Pete Sams becomes President of Highgate, bringing over 30 years of hospitality leadership experience, previously serving as COO at Peregrine Hospitality. Highgate, aiming to expand in Europe, launched HG Portugal and relaunched Dorsett City London Hotel. The company also acquired Viceroy Hotels & Resorts and, with partners, purchased 18 hotels in Portugal. Mahmood Khimji, Co-Chairman, praises Sams for his operational expertise to accelerate growth and value delivery globally.

🍴 José Andrés Group appointed Sam Bakhshandehpour as CEO over a year ago. The group operates 45 restaurants and plans to expand in the Western U.S. and the Middle East, particularly in Arizona, Southern California, Nevada, Colorado, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Focus areas include the Bazaar meat concept, Zaytinya, and a new concept. Expansion will emphasize hotel partnerships and licensing the José Andrés name, targeting secondary markets near Las Vegas.

🏠 Highgate appoints Pete Sams as president in New York, overseeing 500 properties to optimize financial results and guest experiences. Sams previously served 30 years in leadership, most recently as COO at Peregrine Hospitality. He aims to enhance Highgate’s strategic focus and growth with CEO Arash Azarbarzin. Sams' extensive experience includes roles at Davidson Hospitality Group and Omni Hotels. Mahmood Khimji, Highgate’s co-chairman, praised Sams' leadership and expertise.

📈 Davidson Hospitality Group appointed Jason Reader as COO in Atlanta, Georgia, tasked with enhancing operational performance and profitability. Reader will oversee Davidson Hotels, Davidson Restaurant Group, Pivot, and Davidson Resorts. Bringing 25+ years of hospitality experience, he previously held COO roles at Remington Hospitality and Magna Hospitality. Reader is involved with Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt advisory councils. His strategic leadership aims to improve efficiencies and guest experiences across 20+ lodging brands in North America.