Human Resources

🏨 Ryan Bukstein's career at Ace Hotel started in 1999, when the first Ace Hotel opened in Seattle. Ace, founded by Alex Calderwood, became a cultural icon by blending hospitality with community engagement. By 2000, Ryan, originally from Wisconsin, joined Ace after moving to Seattle for college and studying abroad in Japan. He took on various roles, including PR and marketing, eventually becoming VP of brand. Ace Hotel expanded to Portland and other cities, maintaining its unique cultural integration.

🏠 Davidson Hospitality Group appointed Jason Reader as COO. Highgate named Pete Sams as president. Aperture Hotels hired Bert Mullins as VP of operations. La Vie Hotels appointed Amanda Cottome as director of operations – Pacific. Sprague Pest Solutions promoted Chastin Hunsaker to branch manager in Salt Lake City. Corinthia Hotels selected Charlotte Weatherall as GM in London. Amrit Ocean Resort named Burak Sezgin as GM. Hyatt appointed Marc Jacheet as group president EAME. HHM Hotels promoted three to executive VP operations.

🏨 HHM Hotels has revamped its leadership team to boost performance and growth. Cathy O’Brien, Hiram Negron, and Doug Wilkins were promoted to executive vice president of operations. Marsha Ray is now EVP, head of Canadian operations. Ray Perez continues as EVP of operations. Raul Moronta joined as chief revenue officer in late 2024. This restructuring aims to enhance owner relations and operational excellence while preparing for future expansion.

🏨 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.