Highgate, Loews, and CHMWarnick Announce Executive Leadership Changes

Major hospitality brands and investment firms recently announced several leadership transitions across executive, operational, and culinary roles, as reported by Lodging Magazine [1]. Highgate named Siim Karu as chief commercial officer, CHMWarnick hired Jan Hajek as senior vice president, and Loews Hotels & Co appointed Brian Johnson to lead its Arlington collection [1].

Which executive leadership moves occurred at top hotel management firms?

Highgate appointed Siim Karu as chief commercial officer to lead its commercial structure [1]. Meanwhile, asset management and advisory firm CHMWarnick hired Jan Hajek as senior vice president [1]. Lodging Magazine reported that Hajek brings over 18 years of industry experience to the role, having previously served as executive vice president of asset management and investments at First Hospitality [1]. In his new position, Hajek provides strategic advisory and asset management services to property ownership groups across CHMWarnick's growing portfolio [1].

How are corporate hospitality platforms expanding their product and franchise teams?

Aven Hospitality appointed Heather Lisagor as vice president of innovation and product excellence, reporting directly to Chief Transformation Officer Mark Hollyhead [1]. Lisagor brings more than 20 years of experience from Expedia, Egencia, and American Express Global Business Travel to guide Aven's artificial intelligence solutions [1]. At Extended Stay America, Managing Director of Franchise Development Mark Williams announced he will retire at the end of 2026 [1]. Williams joined the company in 2020 and helped grow the Extended Stay America Premier Suites, Suites, and Select Suites brands [1]. Additionally, Australia-based Journey Beyond named Jennifer Vandekreeke as managing director of experiences and attractions [1]. Vandekreeke brings 25 years of global tourism experience after serving as chief executive officer of URBNSURF [1].

What regional and multi-property operational changes were announced by Loews?

Loews Hotels & Co promoted 24-year company veteran Brian Johnson to area managing director of its Arlington hotel collection [1]. In this expanded role, Johnson oversees operations at Live! by Loews – Arlington and Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center while leading pre-opening efforts for Americana by Loews Hotels [1]. Lodging Magazine noted that Johnson also retains operational oversight of the Loews Kansas City Hotel, where he previously served as managing director [1]. At the property level, TheLifeCo St. Lucia appointed Olgay Kiraz as general manager to run all resort operations [1]. Kiraz spent nearly two decades in leadership at Hilton, Marriott, and Flamm Bodrum [1].

Who is taking over property-level sales, marketing, and destination roles?

InterContinental Boston promoted Mehmet Izin to hotel manager and hired Christopher Shimkus as executive assistant manager and director of food and beverage [1]. Shimkus brings 30 years of hospitality experience to the property [1]. At Hilton Anaheim, Peter Kane returned as director of sales and marketing, alongside Ryan Alsup, who joined as director of marketing from Wincome Hospitality [1]. Meanwhile, OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa hired Cynthia Kimm and Nicole Tracy as group sales managers [1]. In destination marketing, the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau promoted Daniel Treuman to national sales manager for citywide support and development on the East Coast [1].

Which culinary and resort wellness leadership appointments were finalized?

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection, appointed Zak Gregoire as executive chef following his previous leadership roles at NoMad London and the Groton Inn [1]. At Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club, Noah Gumustekin was named executive chef, while The Inverness Denver appointed Tom Adona to head its culinary team [1]. The Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea selected Ricardo Dotti as executive chef to oversee four dining outlets [1]. Fenway Hotel appointed Shawn Depugh as chef de cuisine to manage culinary operations across its outlets and 10,000 square feet of event space [1]. Park Hyatt Washington D.C. hired Jesús Abraham Rubio Castillo as pastry chef [1]. Hotel Longmont named Lindsey Ryan as food and beverage director [1]. For resort wellness, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia hired Stephanie Schweppe as spa director, bringing 30 years of experience [1].