Human Resources

🏨 Barry Sternlicht, co-founder of Starwood Capital Group, created Starwood Hotels & Resorts in 1995, known for W Hotels and the Heavenly Bed. He later sold the company to Marriott and is now with Starwood Hotels 2.0. Luca Virgilio, GM of The Dorchester in London, led a major renovation while keeping the hotel operational. Both are recognized by HOTELS Magazine's 2025 "Hoteliers of the World" for their leadership and innovation in hospitality.

📈 Peregrine Hospitality has appointed David Morneau as area general manager and Luis Mendoza as general manager of Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, California. Morneau, with over 20 years of luxury hotel experience, will oversee Paso Robles Inn, The Piccolo, Avila Lighthouse Suites, and Vespera Resort. In 2026, Paso Robles Inn and The Piccolo will debut three new culinary concepts, while Avila Lighthouse Suites will undergo a complete refresh and rebrand. Mendoza brings over a decade of experience to his new role.

🍹 Ardbeg House, a boutique hotel near Ardbeg Distillery on Islay, has appointed Richard Needham as general manager to enhance its whisky-focused offerings. Located near Port Ellen, the venue, designed by Russell Sage Studio, features work from over 20 Scottish artisans. Needham, with experience at Fife Arms and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, will manage operations and guest services. The hotel aims to blend Islay's culinary delights with local narratives for a unique visitor experience.

🍲 Benjamin Ferra y Castell has been promoted to Executive Chef at Yannick Alléno London in 2023. He now oversees culinary operations at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, including Michelin-starred Pavyllon London and Bar Antoine. Benjamin joined Yannick Alléno Group in 2018 and played a key role in Pavyllon London earning a Michelin star six months after opening. His leadership has enhanced the restaurant's reputation with events like the Battuta summer pop-up and the Counter Culture chef series.

🚀 Travelier appoints Mario Gavira as chief marketing officer to drive global growth. Gavira, with 20+ years in travel-tech, joins from Kiwi.com, aiming to enhance Travelier's global marketing strategy and customer-centric innovation. Travelier, featuring seven travel-tech brands, facilitates intercity transport bookings in 124 countries. The appointment aligns with CEO Noam Toister's vision of strengthening Travelier’s market position. Gavira aims to standardize excellence in ground and sea transport and shape intercity travel's future.

📈 Peregrine Hospitality appointed Kristen Richter as chief commercial officer. Avianca's CEO Frederico Pedreira will step down on February 28, 2026, succeeded by Gabriel Oliva as president. Lark appointed Chris Perré as general counsel. Raines appointed Rick Hayduk as general manager of The Lantern Columbia, opening in December 2025. Sheraton Maui Resort promoted Mitchell Cooper to executive chef. Moxy Atlanta Downtown appointed Alfonce McKinney as GM and Tinesha Franklin as Director of Sales.

🏨 Paul Bayliss MBE appointed general manager at Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort. With 30+ years in hospitality, Bayliss aims to transform the hotel into the UK's best over 5-10 years. His strategy focuses on team development, world-class service, and exceptional guest experiences. The historic estate near Leeds offers 18th-century architecture. Bayliss, a former British Army chef, emphasizes training, mentoring, and profitability to reinvest and enhance standards.

🏠 John Trovato appointed general manager of The Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood, Florida, October 2025. The 1,000-room resort transitions to Signia by Hilton, with renovations completing May 2026. Trovato brings over 30 years of experience, including a $100m renovation at Casa Marina, Waldorf Astoria. The appointment aims to enhance resort standards. He's also president of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association for Monroe County and VP of the Florida Lodging Association.