Human Resources

🌐 Five new members join PATA's Executive Board, enhancing leadership representation across Asia Pacific. Jennifer Chun (USA) becomes Secretary/Treasurer, while Yang Li (Singapore), Ibrahim Shiuree (Maldives), Alhasan Aldabbagh (Saudi Arabia), and Suman Pandey (Nepal) join as Executive Board members. These appointments reflect PATA's commitment to broadening industry expertise. The association, founded in 1951 and headquartered in Bangkok, aims to drive positive change in the Pacific Asia tourism economy.

📣 Davidson Hospitality Group, a leading hospitality management company, has launched the GM Edge program in Atlanta, aimed at developing high-performing leaders within its network of 87 hotels and 230 restaurants. The 2026 program includes leaders such as Anne Krugman and Nicole Ramamurthy. Participants engage in regular meetings to enhance skills in various operational areas. Davidson also introduced a General Manager Council this year, fostering leadership across their properties.

🍴 Tyler King, appointed head chef at Knockinaam Lodge in Dumfries and Galloway, leads a dining revamp. The restaurant holds three AA Rosettes and offers a seven-course tasting menu at £135 per person, with wine pairings. A new three-course lunch menu is priced at £40. King emphasizes local ingredients, collaborating with producers like BoTree and Loch Ryan Wild Venison. His approach aligns with the hotel’s ethos of showcasing seasonal Scottish produce.

📍 Meyer Jabara Hotels will manage the 36-room Reitz Union Hotel at the University of Florida, Gainesville. This marks the first university hotel in MJH's portfolio. The hotel is located near Ben Hill Griffin Stadium and UF Health Shands Hospital. Immediate plans include expanding sales and marketing and possible renovations over the next year or two. This partnership aims to enhance boutique hospitality experiences on the campus.

📖 James Thomas, with over 26 years of hospitality leadership experience, has been appointed as the general manager of YOTEL Washington DC. The hotel is preparing to integrate into Hilton's systems, expanding its reach through Hilton's platforms and allowing guests to use Hilton Honors Points. Thomas, previously at Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, has led properties in Washington, DC, and Maryland, including Motto by Hilton Washington DC Downtown and Washington Marriott Capitol Hill.

📑 José Silva, a hospitality veteran with over 40 years of experience, was appointed Chairman of Maybourne. Known for his leadership at Jumeirah Group and Four Seasons, Silva will guide Maybourne’s global growth strategy. CEO Marc Socker praised Silva's expertise. Maybourne, an ultra-luxury brand, operates iconic hotels like Claridge’s and The Maybourne Beverly Hills. Silva expressed excitement about advancing Maybourne’s legacy and global presence.

📍 Diego Padula has been appointed general manager at The Cape, a Thompson Hotel in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Padula, who started in April 2024 at Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa in Honduras, has 20 years of experience with brands like W Hotels and Le Meridien. The Cape features 159 rooms, an infinity pool, and a spa. Padula is excited about leading The Cape's future innovations and guest experience enhancements.

🏨 [Danbury, Conn., August 18, 2026] Meyer Jabara Hotels, headquartered in Danbury, Conn., and West Palm Beach, Fla., announced its management of the Reitz Union Hotel at the University of Florida, Gainesville. The 36-room boutique hotel, owned by the university, marks MJH's first university hotel venture. Immediate plans include expanded marketing and potential renovations. MJH operates 45 hotels across 20 U.S. states, emphasizing boutique hospitality expertise.

🏨 José Silva, with 40+ years of industry experience, has been appointed chairman of Maybourne to oversee its global expansion. Previously, as CEO of Jumeirah Group, he transformed it into a global luxury operator. Silva also spent nearly 25 years with Four Seasons, achieving five Michelin stars at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris. Maybourne's plans include new hotels, residential developments, and wellness facilities. Silva aims to enhance Maybourne's luxury hospitality reputation.

🏨 In 2026, lifestyle hotel The Standard London appointed Sophie Bratt as head of bars, overseeing its bars like Sweeties, Double Standard, Decimo, and Isla. With a decade-long career in venues like The Roof Gardens and Nobu, Bratt was awarded Bar Manager of the Year in 2024. Isla recently transformed into a wine bar, focusing on organic and biodynamic selections. The Standard was acquired by Hyatt for £272 million in 2024.