Lodge + Dine is pleased to announce The Top 25 Hotel Executives of 2023. We recognize the outstanding achievements of these leaders who are at the highest levels of the hospitality industry. Despite the many titles that can be found in this year's list – whether it be CEO, president, or founder – all of these exceptional individuals are responsible for overseeing the overall business strategies for some of the most respected names in the world of luxury hotels. This includes keeping a close eye on numerous departments, such as the front desk, housekeeping, food and beverage, sales and marketing, and finance. At the same time, they have to stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies, while also promoting efficient workflows and other strategies that support their hotel's interests. In short, the visions and leadership prowess of these hoteliers are necessary for creating the opulent experiences craved by a luxury hotel market that is estimated to hit nearly $100 billion in 2023.
Among the individuals recognized on this year's list, we have Craig Billings, the CEO of Wynn Resorts, one of the most recognized luxury resort brands in the world. Billings leads innovation and the standards of excellence at Wynn Resorts, which can be found in places like Las Vegas, Nevada and China. On the other hand, with more than 30 years of experience in hospitality and tourism, Marlene Poynder is the first woman to lead the iconic hotel: The Carlyle. A native of Australia, Poynder attributes her success to the teams she has built and developed to achieve common goals. Additionally, Roger Warren serves as President for the Charleston, South Carolina-based Kiawah Island Golf Resort, which not only garners accolades for its 5-star hotel rooms and luxury villas, but has also grabbed attention for hosting prominent events like the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship.
Please join us in celebrating The Top 25 Hotel Executives of 2023.
1. Alejandro Reynal
President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotel
Alejandro Reynal is focused on propelling the Four Seasons Hotel to the forefront of the luxury hospitality industry, while strategically expanding its presence into untapped business sectors. With a strong emphasis on fostering an inclusive and empowering culture, Reynal prioritizes exceeding customer expectations through exceptional service and innovation, and achieving resounding success by ensuring a clear strategic vision and disciplined execution. He consistently delivers value to employees, guests, residents, partners, and shareholders by enhancing the existing business operations and capitalizing on new growth opportunities.
Reynal’s extensive professional experience spans the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He has a proven track record in driving transformative change within multi-billion-dollar organizations. Joining Four Seasons as President and CEO in 2022, Reynal previously held the positions of President and CEO at Apple Leisure Group (ALG), a luxury resort management and leisure travel group owned by Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where he led a global team of 38,000 employees across 14 countries, catering to customers and destinations worldwide. Prior to his role at ALG, Reynal served as the CEO of Atento, a customer relationship management and business process outsourcing services company with a workforce of 150,000 employees in 13 countries, where he successfully steered the organization for almost eight years. Earlier in his career, Reynal held strategic management positions at Telefonica and The Coca-Cola Company.
Reynal’s academic background includes bachelor's and master's in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology–complemented by an MBA from the Harvard Business School.
2. Craig Billings
Chief Executive Officer, Wynn Resorts
Craig Billings is the CEO of Wynn Resorts, one of the most recognized luxury resort brands in the world. With more Forbes five-star awards than any independent hotel company in the world, Billings leads innovation and the standards of excellence at Wynn Resort’s current properties including Wynn and Encore in Las Vegas, Nevada; Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace in the SAR Macau of the People’s Republic of China; and Encore Boston Harbor near Boston, Massachusetts.
Billings is a member of the Board of Directors of Wynn Resorts and Wynn Macau, Limited. He joined Wynn Resorts in 2017 and was previously the company’s President and CFO–as well as the CEO of subsidiary Wynn Interactive. He has a history of leadership and innovation in the gaming industry, both domestically and internationally. He has held executive and board positions at Goldman Sachs, Aristocrat Leisure Limited, NYX Gaming Group, and International Game Technology. Prior to joining Wynn Resorts, Billings honed a global perspective with senior executive positions in both Australia and the UK during his time as Chief Digital Officer and Managing Director of Strategy and Business Development at Aristocrat Leisure. He is also the Lead Independent Director and Audit Committee Chair for Applovin Corporation.
3. Offer Nissenbaum
Managing Director, The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Offer Nissenbaum brings over three decades of extensive experience in the luxury hospitality industry, currently holding the position of General Manager at The Peninsula Beverly Hills since 2007. A prominent figure in the field, before his tenure at The Peninsula Hotels, Nissenbaum held executive positions with North American luxury hotel groups, including Omni Hotels, Delta Hotels & Resorts, and Doral Hotels & Resorts. He served as the Regional Vice President of Operations for Omni Hotels, overseeing the performance of nine upscale hotel properties for a decade.
Originally from Canada, Nissenbaum pursued his passion for hospitality management at Paul Smith's College in upstate New York. Early in his career, he excelled as the General Manager of the renowned Doral Saturnia International Spa Resort in Miami, which held the prestigious distinction of being the highest-rated hotel spa in the United States and the first to receive the AAA Five Diamond Award. Additionally, he served as the Resident Manager of New York City's iconic Plaza Hotel.
4. Michele Grosso
Managing Director, The Langham Hotel, Boston
Michele became Managing Director of The Langham Hotel, Boston in 2019, ahead of its historic $200 million renovation. A four-star and four-diamond property located in Boston’s financial district, the opulent hotel is only a 10-12 minute drive from the airport. Notably, The Langham’s main structure was once the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. After the renovation, most of the building’s outside façade was left intact, but the rooms inside were rebuilt and redone. It perfectly blends classic and modern architecture, giving a strong Boston vibe to every guest or traveler.
Prior to his current role, Grosso served as the General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. Later, Grosso served as General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, where he cultivated a reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Grosso began his ascent in the industry at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, assuming various roles such as waiter, cook, and front desk staff. These experiences equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate workings of the hotel industry, establishing a solid foundation for his subsequent achievements.
5. Scott Steilen
President and CEO, Lodge at Sea Island Company
Scott Steilen is the President and CEO of Sea Island Company, an establishment that appeals to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality. With a rich history dating back to 1928, Sea Island has consistently provided outstanding venues and service for conferences and executive retreats. Situated on the captivating southeastern coast of Georgia, Sea Island boasts an impressive array of amenities, including five miles of pristine private beach, a Beach Club, top-notch tennis and squash centers, a distinguished Yacht Club, a Shooting School, and Camp Cloister. Renowned for its golfing heritage, Sea Island is home to three championship golf courses, including the prestigious Seaside and Plantation, which hosts the acclaimed PGA TOUR's RSM Classic, as well as the nation's finest Golf Performance Center.
Previously, Steilen served as a principal at Warnick + Company; and previously held a senior manager position at Ernst & Young. Earlier in his career, he demonstrated his expertise as a senior associate at HVS International. With an undergraduate degree in hospitality business from Michigan State University, Steilen’s exceptional leadership and experience make him a key figure in the continued success of Sea Island Company.
6. Jack Damioli
President and CEO, The Broadmoor
Jack Damioli is the President and CEO of the renowned Broadmoor Hotel and Resort in Colorado Springs. His dedication to excellence permeates every aspect of his work, from guest experiences to fostering relationships and inspiring his team. Damioli believes that historic hotels like The Broadmoor attract service-oriented, humble individuals who genuinely enjoy people.
Damioli's hospitality journey began at The Greenbrier, where he fell in love with the industry and climbed the ranks to General Manager. He then successfully restored The Gasparilla Inn & Club in Florida, honing his entrepreneurial spirit. A fortuitous reunion with childhood friend and mentor Steve Bartolin led Damioli to The Broadmoor, where he joined as vice president and managing director. In 2021, he assumed the role of President and CEO. Damioli appreciates the beauty of Colorado Springs and the rich history of The Broadmoor, with only three owners since its establishment in 1918. He strives to keep the resort relevant and authentic, offering unique adventures like Cloud Camp, Emerald Valley Ranch, and Fly Fishing Camp.
Beyond The Broadmoor, Damioli actively supports his community and serves on various boards. He is particularly passionate about The Broadmoor's food rescue program, which donates thousands of pounds of food to the Colorado Springs Rescue Mission. Damioli enjoys the hiking trails and continues to indulge his love for golf. He cherishes his family life with his wife and two grown daughters, all residing and working in Colorado. With his leadership, dedication, and care for both guests and employees, Damioli shapes The Broadmoor into a cherished and renowned destination, while leaving a positive impact on the hospitality industry and the community he serves.
7. Roger Warren
President, Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Roger Warren is the President of Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Located along 10 miles of pristine beach about 25 miles south of Charleston, S.C., Kiawah Island Golf Resort consistently ranks as one of the country’s top resorts. It includes The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, the resort’s Forbes Five Star/AAA Five Diamond 255-room hotel and spa, nearly 500 private villas and luxury homes, over one dozen dining establishments, and five championship golf courses, including The Ocean Course, host of the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2012 PGA Championship and 2021 PGA Championship. For 15 of the past 17 years, the resort has ranked as the number-one tennis resort in the world by TennisResortsOnline.com, and features acclaimed recreation and nature programs. Warren has 18 years of experience. He began his career in 2005.
Warren graduated from Northern Illinois University with an MS in health and physical education and fitness and from Western Illinois University with an undergraduate degree in health and physical education and fitness.
8. Alan Faena
Founder & President, Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Hotelier Alan Faena has made an indelible mark across a range of industries, including hospitality, fashion, art, real estate, and urbanism. Since 2000, he has collaborated with Len Blavatnik, a businessman and philanthropist with global interests in natural resources, media, entertainment, telecommunications, and real estate. Working together, the pair has transformed the old docklands of Puerto Madero in Buenos Aires into one of the city’s most valuable pieces of real estate. In 2015, the duo inaugurated the Faena Hotel and Faena District in Miami, redefining the experience of travel by merging the elements of art, culture, entertainment, sustainable architecture, and cutting-edge technology.
Born in 1963 in Buenos Aires, Faena is an Argentine hotelier and real estate developer. As the President of Faena Group, he has played a pivotal role in its success. Prior to real estate, Faena founded the fashion label Via Vai in 1985, expanding it to include ready-to-wear collections and denim before selling it in 1996. Furthermore, Faena's influence extends to the arts. He is a member of the Tate International Committee and the New Museum Leaders Council.
9. Nathalie Jordi
Co-Founder, Hotel Peter & Paul
Nathalie Jordi is the Co-Founder of Hotel Peter & Paul, a historic 19th-century site. The property consists of four buildings – including a church, rectory, schoolhouse, and convent – that have been transformed into an elegant hotel comprising 71 guest rooms. The property also features a rotating retail space, a unique meeting and events area located within the restored church, and distinctive food & beverage offerings in the old rectory from the team behind James Beard-award-nominated wine bar and restaurant, Bacchanal. Hotel Peter & Paul is a joint partnership between ASH NYC and Nathalie that has an emphasis on culture, architecture, and history, welcoming visitors and locals alike.
Jordi has written on food and travel for the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Bon Appétit, Gourmet, and Saveur, among others. She also lived in Ireland to work on Darina Allen’s Forgotten Skills of Cooking. She founded People’s Pops in 2008, along with David Carrell and Joel Horowitz. Jordi graduated from Brown University with an undergraduate degree and from Tulane University with an MBA.
10. Christian Lee
Chief Executive Officer, Mint House
Christian Lee is the Chief Executive Officer of Mint House, having assumed the role in 2023. Mint House is a pioneering organization committed to revolutionizing the traditional hotel model and establishing an entirely new category of residential hospitality that fundamentally transforms the way individuals live, work, and engage in leisure activities when away from home. By seamlessly combining the timeless comforts of a home with the modern luxuries of a hotel, Mint House offers guests a unique experience that eliminates any compromises. Every aspect of the Mint House experience is powered by cutting-edge smart technology, ensuring that each customer's stay is personalized, predictable, and effortless. Currently, Mint House operates in several prominent U.S. cities, including New York, Miami, Nashville, Philadelphia, and Austin.
Prior to joining Mint House, Lee held the position of Chief Financial Officer at Transfix. He also previously served as a Managing Director and CFO at WeWork. Earlier in his career, he served as an SVP and Head of M&A at Time Warner Cable; and as an Investment Analyst at Citigroup. Lee studied at Nankai University, Carleton College, and Columbia Business School.
11. Wayne Kafcsak
CEO, Jumby Bay Island
Wayne Kafcsak is Chief Executive Officer at Jumby Bay Island, a private island located just off the coast of Antigua. With his appointment in 2020, Kafcsak has brought his wealth of expertise and leadership to steer Jumby Bay Island toward continued success. Jumby Bay Island stands as the epitome of exclusivity, offering an exclusive private island experience. Boasting a collection of 58 stunning houses, each is meticulously designed to provide a luxurious and intimate retreat for its discerning guests. Additionally, the island features a high-end boutique hotel operated by the renowned Rosewood brand, comprising 40 exquisite rooms that embody elegance and sophistication.
Before joining Jumby Bay Island, Kafcsak held prominent positions in the hospitality industry, including Managing Director at Islas Secas and Fregate Island Private, where he successfully implemented strategic initiatives and elevated the guest experience. Earlier in his career, Kafcsak worked with Prospect of Whitby Resort, where he gained experience in managing upscale properties and delivering exceptional service.
12. Dant Hirsch
President & Group Managing Director, Ocean House, Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Dant Hirsch brings his wealth of expertise to Ocean House Collection, having previously served as the General Manager of the New York property at Six Senses Hotels Resorts and Spas. During his tenure, Hirsch demonstrated exemplary leadership in overseeing the development of luxury guest rooms, condominiums, a membership club, and pioneering food and beverage concepts. With an impressive background in managing establishments, including those adorned with Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond ratings, Hirsch's professional journey includes significant roles such as General Manager at The Dominick in New York, Faena Miami Beach, and Regional General Manager of the Americas for COMO Hotels and Resorts.
In the earlier stages of his career, Hirsch distinguished himself as the Hotel Manager and Director of Operations for St. Regis Hotels and Resorts in Miami and Kauai. His commitment to excellence extended to leadership positions at prominent establishments such as the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota and Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort in British Columbia. Hirsch's academic accomplishments further solidify his credentials, as he obtained a bachelor's degree from Penn State University, where his exceptional performance earned him recognition as a Schreyer Scholar. Additionally, he holds a higher education certificate from Cornell University.
13. Johannes Faessler
President and General Manager, Sonnenalp Vail
Johannes Faessler began his journey in the hospitality industry nearly four decades ago. Today, he serves as President and General Manager at Sonnenalp Vail. Nestled in close proximity to Gondola One, Sonnenalp Vail is an opulent alpine resort. Embracing a Bavarian-inspired aesthetic, every room and suite within this lavish retreat is adorned with exquisite furniture and decor, seamlessly blending timeless elegance with modern comforts. Guests can relish in the convenience of modern electronics and complimentary Wi-Fi, while the luxurious bathrooms with heated floors provide a haven of relaxation. For an added touch of indulgence, the suites are equipped with balconies and cozy fireplaces, setting the stage for an unforgettable retreat.
Encompassing a total of 127 meticulously appointed rooms and suites, Sonnenalp Vail offers a plethora of exquisite dining options across six unique settings, where guests can savor delectable culinary creations and enjoy refreshing libations. Furthermore, the resort boasts a dedicated European-style spa that prioritizes the holistic wellbeing of its discerning guests. A luxury ski concierge service caters to skiing enthusiasts, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience on the slopes. Meanwhile, the resort's exclusive access to private activities and a Kid's club guarantees entertainment and enjoyment for the whole family.
Moreover, during the summer months, Sonnenalp Vail presents a championship 18-hole golf course, inviting guests to perfect their swing amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. In essence, Sonnenalp Vail epitomizes the epitome of refined luxury, where guests can immerse themselves in an unrivaled alpine experience that seamlessly combines sophistication, relaxation, and recreation.
14. Jon Sakshaug
Chief Executive Officer, Hotel Emma at Pearl
Jon Sakshaug is the Chief Executive Officer at Hotel Emma at Pearl. Rich with history, authentic, and welcoming, Hotel Emma at Pearl was once a 19th-century brewhouse. Now it is a sprawling 146-room hotel – and the flagship for Pearl’s culinary and cultural community. Guests at Hotel Emma experience San Antonio as if they are staying at the well-appointed home of extremely interesting friends. During their stay, guests are invited to enjoy the plethora of warm social experiences, genuine cultural flavor, insider knowledge, and delightful surprises unique to the hotel, the neighborhood, and the city.
Sakshaug started his career in 1990, serving as an Assistant Controller at Peninsula New York. He later moved on to become a Director of Finance at a number of hotels, including Hilton of Santa Fe, Swissotel Atlanta, Hotel Teatro, Watermark Hotel and Spa, and La Cantera Hill Country Resort, to name a few. Sakshaug earned his undergraduate degree in hotel management from Southern New Hampshire University.
15. Ginny Lopis
Owner, The Lodge at Woodloch
Ginny Lopis is the Owner of The Lodge at Woodloch. Nestled in the heart of the Lake Region in Northeast Pennsylvania, this award-winning destination spa spans over 500 acres of breathtakingly pristine wooded landscape, featuring a captivating 15-acre private lake. The Lodge at Woodloch is a testament to refined luxury, boasting 58 impeccably designed guest rooms and suites that exude elegance and comfort. As a sanctuary for personal rejuvenation, this exclusive property encompasses a myriad of exceptional amenities and experiences. A grand 40,000-square-foot spa offers a haven of tranquility and renewal. Superb dining options tantalize the taste buds, while outdoor adventures beckon the adventurous spirits of guests. The Lodge at Woodloch also prides itself on providing comprehensive fitness programs, enlightening educational forums, and a philosophy centered on personal awakening.
The Lodge at Woodloch offers an oasis of respite. There, guests have the opportunity to detach from their routine and rediscover themselves. By reconnecting with creative outlets and engaging in stress-relieving activities, visitors can continue to reap the benefits long after they depart. Accommodations at the lodge are all-inclusive, providing guests with comfortable rooms, delectable meals, access to fitness and wellness activities, immersive art classes, enlightening cooking demonstrations, and full utilization of the spa and fitness facilities. Lopis first opened the lodge in 2006. She graduated from Michigan State University with a master’s in English education.
16. Marlene Poynder
Managing Director, The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel, New York City
With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality and tourism, Marlene Poynder serves as the Managing Director of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, in New York City. A genuine trailblazer in her field, Poynder is the first woman to lead the iconic Upper East Side hotel. Notably, The Carlyle recently completed a three-year thoughtful transformation, from new guest rooms and suites to the debut of the hotel’s signature restaurant, Dowling’s at The Carlyle. In her current role, Poynder oversees all aspects of the property, including the famed Bemelmans Bar and the celebrated Café Carlyle.
A native of Australia, most recently Poynder held the position of General Manager at the Conrad New York Downtown. In 2015, she moved to the U.S. to become General Manager of the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago. Before joining Hilton, Poynder held a variety of executive roles with Hyatt Hotels in Asia and Australia, overseeing hotel openings of luxury properties. With Hilton, she managed openings and presided over renovations. She attributes her success to the teams she has built and developed to achieve common goals. Poynder is involved in New York City’s official tourism organization, NYC & Company, and serves on their Executive Committee and is co-chair of the Hotel Committee.
17. Brian De Lowe
President & Co-Founder, Proper Hospitality
Brian De Lowe serves as President and Co-Founder of Proper Hospitality, which is renowned for its operation and branding of high-end lifestyle hospitality experiences under the Proper, Avalon, and Hotel June brands. Simultaneously, De Lowe holds the same position at Kor Real Estate Partners, a fully-integrated firm excelling in real estate investment, development, and management. Kor stands out in the industry due to its ingenious utilization of creative design and distinctive branding, which greatly amplifies the value of its investments in hotels, multifamily properties, and other lifestyle real estate assets.
In his capacity as President of Proper Hospitality, De Lowe bears the responsibility of overseeing the company's overall corporate strategy, conceptualizing and developing the Proper and Hotel June brands. Additionally, he exercises his leadership skills in supervising all operational divisions; and spearheads the identification and execution of new business opportunities and strategic partnerships.
At Kor, De Lowe’s leadership extends to defining the corporate strategy and spearheading the identification and execution of real estate acquisitions and partnerships. Since the relaunch of Kor in 2012, De Lowe has showcased his acumen by successfully closing over $1 billion worth of lifestyle real estate projects, thereby cementing the firm's thriving success and solid reputation within the industry. De Lowe’s contributions and visionary approach have played an instrumental role in positioning Proper Hospitality and Kor Real Estate Partners as industry leaders, known for their unwavering commitment to excellence and hospitality experiences.
18. Craig Reid
President & Chief Executive Officer, Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
A leader within the hospitality industry, Craig Reid is highly regarded for his expertise in hotel development, management, and unwavering dedication to service excellence. Joining Auberge in January 2014, Reid brought with him a lengthy career spanning over three decades at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. As President of Hotel Operations, Americas since 2011, he showcased his visionary leadership by setting the strategic direction for Four Seasons hotels across Canada, the United States, and Latin America—an expansive region encompassing seven time zones.
Prior to his current role, Reid served as Senior Vice President Operations for the Americas, while also assuming diverse management positions at notable Four Seasons properties in prominent cities such as Chicago, Boston, Austin, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. His professional journey began as a management trainee at The Savoy Group in London, where he laid the foundation for his successful career.
Reid’s educational accomplishments include a diploma in Hotel Administration from Westminster College, London. In his pursuit of continuous growth, he further enhanced his skills by completing the Summer Management Program at Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration. With his exceptional track record, Reid emodies strong leadership, extensive industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to excellence in the realm of hospitality.
19. Joe Bartolomei
Owner, Farmhouse Inn, Forestville, California
Joe Bartolomei, a fifth-generation resident of Sonoma County's Russian River Valley, has built a retreat that combines classic elegance with modern Wine Country aesthetics. Alongside his sister Catherine, he preserves Sonoma County's unique way of life through the Farmhouse Inn, Restaurant, and Spa.
Raised on a 200-acre ranch in Forestville, Bartolomei continues his family's farming legacy, cultivating antique apple trees and replanting original zinfandel grapes as pinot noir. With a degree in structural mechanical engineering, Bartolomei transformed the Farmhouse into a world-class destination resort, earning recognition from prestigious publications like Michelin Guide and Conde Nast Traveler.
Bartolomei actively engages with the community, serving on boards like Sonoma Country Day School and Sonoma County Tourism. He is also a sought-after speaker and contributor to local tourism and hospitality, receiving the "Spirit of Sonoma" award in 2019. Living on Bartolomei Farms with his wife Sharon and three children, Bartolomei supports 4H and supplies the Farmhouse restaurant with eggs, produce, and honey from their flourishing ecosystem.
20. Andrea Gates
Managing Director, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
A seasoned Rosewood Hotels & Resorts veteran, Andrea Gates has led Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek as Managing Director since she returned to Dallas in 2013. Gates’ Rosewood journey has taken her to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she served as Managing Director at Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, and to Manhattan’s prestigious Upper East Side, where she held the position of Hotel Manager at The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, the collection’s legendary and iconic property.
Gates, a native of Argentina, spent her early years in New Jersey and moved to Dallas still as a young child. Her Rosewood journey originally began in 1992 at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, where she served as the hotel's Rooms Director, a post she held for 14 years. Under her leadership, The Mansion garnered many impressive awards and established itself as the pinnacle of hospitality in Texas and beyond.
Gates is actively involved in the local community, holding various community board and committee positions, including Visit Dallas and Les Dames d’ Escoffier, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the achievements of women in culinary and hospitality fields.
21. Carlos Bueno
Managing Director, The Newbury, Boston
Carlos Bueno is the Managing Director at The Newbury, Boston. The Newbury Boston at One Newbury Street is located in the premier shopping and dining neighborhood of Boston’s Back Bay. This iconic property originally opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the U.S. Later it was thoughtfully transformed into a 286-room luxury hotel with 16,000-sq-ft of stunning event spaces, signature dining experiences, and a reimagined front entrance on Newbury Street.
Bueno's professional journey began in 2000 when he entered the realm of food and beverage at The Waldorf Astoria. He later moved on to Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, eventually rising to the role of General Manager at Taj Boston. Bueno earned an undergraduate degree in hotel restaurant management from Johnson & Wales University.
22. John Trovato
Managing Director, Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
John Trovato is the Managing Director of Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, boasting 23 years of industry experience. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a portfolio of more than 34 landmark destinations, each being a true reflection of their surroundings in the world’s most sought-after locations. Unified by their inspirational environments and unparalleled guest service, Waldorf Astoria creates unique authentic moments through the delivery of True Waldorf Service. Meanwhile, Personal Concierges delivers exceptional, bespoke service: from the moment a guest books, all the way through check out.
Prior to his current appointment, Trovato held the position of Area Managing Director at Lexington Hotel, a Highgate property. Preceding his tenure at Lexington, he served as the General Manager at The Roosevelt Hotel. Earlier in his career, Trovato served as a General Manager at the San Francisco Marriott. He holds an undergraduate degree in business, management, marketing, and related support services from St. Vincent College.
23. Lyon Porter
Owner, Urban Cowboy Lodge
Lyon Porter embarked on his professional journey over a decade ago, currently holding the position of Owner at Urban Cowboy Lodge. Rooted in the essence of freedom, the Cowboy philosophy encompasses indulgence in libations, melodic harmonies, rejuvenating bathing rituals, and the enchantment of romantic connections.
Porter's professional trajectory commenced in 2010 as a real estate acquisitions analyst at C&K, a role that marked the beginning of his career. Building upon this foundation, he subsequently joined MNS, an organization renowned for its expertise in real estate services. Demonstrating his dedication and aptitude, Porter steadily ascended the ranks, eventually attaining the position of associate real estate broker at The Corcoran Group.
Complementing his practical experiences, Porter's academic pursuits have also contributed to his comprehensive expertise. Graduating from New York University with a master's in real estate, he augmented his professional knowledge with a deep theoretical understanding of the discipline. This multidimensional approach, blending academic rigor with hands-on involvement, equipped Porter with a unique ability to navigate the complexities of the real estate landscape. Today, as Owner of Urban Cowboy Lodge, he continues to shape this haven of enchantment – ensuring that it remains a cherished oasis for travelers, dreamers, and romantics alike.
24. Abdi Manavi
Managing Partner & General Manager, Dive Palm Springs
Raised between London and Los Angeles, Abdi Manavi blends expertise in hospitality and hotel operations with deep experience in property development. He is currently a Managing Partner and General Manager of Dive Palm Springs. The product of a partnership between Los Angeles-based designers and artists who share an affinity for 1960s French beach culture, Dive is an 11-room adults-only boutique resort. It’s located in the heart of Palm Springs.
Prior to joining Dive Palm Springs, Manavi served as General Manager of Sparrows Lodge in Palm Springs. He’s also served as Assistant General Manager at Holiday House Palm Springs. On top of that, he was the Co-Founder of Supperclub LA, a 14,000 sq. ft. restaurant and club in Hollywood. He earned an undergraduate degree in economics from Boston University.
25. Maria Razumich-Zec
Regional Vice President and General Manager, The Peninsula Chicago
Maria Razumich-Zec became Regional Vice President of The Peninsula Hotels' U.S. East Coast division in 2007, overseeing operations in Chicago and New York. She is also a member of the Group Management Committee for The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (HSH), the parent company of The Peninsula Hotels.
In her dual role as Regional Vice President and General Manager of The Peninsula Chicago since 2002, Razumich-Zec has led the hotel to receive prestigious hospitality-industry awards, including Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond ratings. Leaders magazine recognized her as one of the "Top 10 Hoteliers" and inducted her into the "Hoteliers' Hall of Achievement." Prior to joining The Peninsula Hotels, Razumich-Zec held management positions at renowned hotels in Chicago and New York, including The New York Palace Hotel and The Palmer House Hilton.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Razumich-Zec actively contributes to various charitable and philanthropic endeavors. She serves on the Boards of Directors for The Waterbor Burn and Cancer Foundation, The Nic Zec Foundation for Lupus, the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association, Choose Chicago, and the Board of Trustees for the Joan W. and Irving B. Harris Theatre for Music and Dance. She is also a member of The Economic Club, The Executives' Club of Chicago, and The Chicago Network—an organization of accomplished women in business, the arts, government, and academia. A Chicago native, Razumich-Zec holds bachelor's in business management and French from Purdue University.
