Ashford Hospitality Trust has appointed Douglas A. Kessler its new CEO. Monty J. Bennett, who formerly held the title, remains chairman of the board of Ashford Trust.
Here’s a look at other notable comings and goings that took place this week:
Outrigger Resorts has announced that W. David P. Carey III, who led the company for more than 30 years, will transition into a lead role on the Outrigger advisory board. KSL Resorts co-founder and CEO Scott Dalecio will take over day-to-day oversight as interim CEO.
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has appointed Jessica Alba as the newest addition to its Rosewood Curators program, a group of leaders who share travel tips and insider secrets for Rosewood destinations. Alba, founder of the Honest Company and actress, will share advice on family vacations at the Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya.
Hotel Riviera Maya, in Miami, Fla., has welcomed Fernando Garcia Rossette as general manager. Rossette, with more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, comes from the Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, a beachfront resort located in South Walton, Fla., has named Laurie Graupner as executive chef of Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood. Graupner joined the resort’s restaurant five years ago as a part-time prep cook.
The Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City hotel, located in Charlotte, N.C., has announced the promotion of Jami Horton Hill to director of sales and marketing.
Pacific Hospitality Group (PHG) has named Paul Maddison as general manager of AC Hotel Irvine, which is set to open this spring in Southern California. Maddison most recently served as director of operations at PHG’s Wyndham Anaheim Garden Grove in Garden Grove, Calif.
Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel has appointed Lizzie Raudenbush as director of sales and marketing. Raudenbush comes from the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego. In her new role, she will plan and implement sales, marketing and product development programs.
Omni Hotels & Resorts has named Ramon Reyes as general manager for the Omni Hotel at The Battery Atlanta, which is set to open fall 2017. Reyes most recently served as general manager of the Omni Riverfront Hotel in New Orleans. Jennifer Mayo, who has been with the company since 1998, will also join the new hotel’s staff as director of sales and marketing.
Aimbridge Hospitality has promoted Brad Frazier to senior vice president of sales-premium select service and channel point after a 13-year career with the company.
Aqua-Aston Hospitality, based in Honolulu, Hawaii, has named George Nicholas assistant vice president of information technology (IT). In this role, Nicholas will oversee the senior staff and implement the company’s IT strategy.
Hotel Crescent Court, located in Dallas, Texas, has welcomed Samantha Koon as executive sous chef of the members-only Crescent Club. In her new role, Koon will manage all aspects of the kitchen, working closely with the executive chef.
