PHOENIX—Best Western International announced that its board of directors has elected Jayesh ‘Jay’ Patel as board chairman for 2015. He was elected a director in November 2010 and re-elected in 2013 to represent the interests of Best Western hotel owners in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. He previously served one-year terms as vice chairman and secretary-treasurer of the board.
Patel’s history with Best Western goes back more than 30 years, and in that time he has developed five Best Western hotels in Louisiana. He currently has ownership interests in the Best Western Airport Inn in Monroe, La., the Best Western LaPlace Inn in LaPlace, La., and the Best Western Plus Houma Inn in Gray, La.
“Having a board of directors comprised of current hotel operators ensures Best Western is focused on the current and future opportunities our hotel owners face,” said Best Western President and CEO David Kong. “Jay’s long tenure with Best Western and range of experience makes him an ideal chair for 2015.”
“With the ongoing success of our descriptor program as well as the launch of the Vib concept and our new soft brand, the BW Premier Collection, it is truly an exciting time to be taking on this new role,” said Jayesh Patel, chairman of the board for Best Western International. “The Board will remain focused on enhancing our brand and driving more revenue to our hoteliers in 2015.”
Patel’s company, Cajun Lodging, owns, manages, and builds hotels that range from limited service to full service. In addition to the three Best Westerns, his company owns six other hotels in the suburban New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas.
Before being elected to the board, Patel held a number of leadership positions within the Best Western organization, including serving as a Best Western governor for nearly 15 years. He also has served as chairman of the brand’s committees for education and training and cultural diversity.
