Human Resources

📈 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.

🏨 Jess Counsell appointed general manager for Dedham in November 2025. She oversees Talbooth Restaurant, Talbooth House and Spa, and milsoms in Dedham, managing 27 bedrooms, Idle Waters cottage, and various dining and catering services. This appointment follows Geoff Hare's promotion and marks a leadership restructuring, uniting Dedham businesses under single management. Jess's career includes leadership at Talbooth Restaurant and completing the Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders Diploma in 2023. Paul Milsom praises her maturity and leadership.

💻 Charlie Ayers, Rosa Dinnissen, and Shirley Kind are now part of the Amsterdam-based Social Hub's newly organized marketing team to enhance visibility. This B Corp-certified company has 21 hubs in 18 European cities, boasting over 10,000 rooms and 1,000 employees. With plans to expand in Turin and Lisbon, the Social Hub, founded by Charlie MacGregor, combines hotel, student, and coworking spaces, aiming for consistent brand recognition across Europe.

🛫 João Moura, appointed director of market expansion at CMAC Group, will lead new office locations across Europe. With CMAC's operations in 121 countries, they have moved over five million passengers and supported 100,000 cruise travelers in Portugal this year. Lillian Moura, now general manager of Portugal, and Patricia Nova, head of DMC cruise, join him to support CMAC’s growth strategy. The company’s expansion is fueled by strong client demand and advanced technology.

📈 Michele Allen, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' CFO, departs in November 2025 after 25 years. Kurt Albert, treasurer since May 2024, is interim CFO. Allen advises until late 2025. CEO Geoff Ballotti praises Allen's contributions and Albert's leadership. Albert, with 15+ years at Wyndham, will manage finances during the transition. Wyndham maintains its 2025 financial outlook.

📍 Crescent Hotels & Resorts, November 2025, Columbus, Ohio: Crescent Hotels & Resorts has taken over management of The Westin Great Southern Columbus, a historic hotel built in 1897. This property features 188 rooms and over 13,000 sq. ft. of event space, including Bar Cicchetti, an Italian restaurant. Crescent’s role includes hotel operations and food and beverage management, enhancing the guest experience. This move strengthens Crescent's presence in Columbus and aligns with Whitestone Companies' ownership goals.