Born in Lebanon to a family of professionals, Safi was encouraged by his parents to pursue a career in medicine, but he instead contemplated dentistry until a school job fair opened his eyes to the hotel industry. “There was a woman at the fair who worked for a big hotel group,” reminisces Safi, “She had a sparkle in her eyes and a real passion for what she did. She invited me to train for a month, and I enjoyed the hotel vibe so much that I chose to pursue hospitality instead.”
The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett hires Robert Benett as Executive Chef
The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett, a four-star full-service hotel scheduled to open in March 2024, has named accomplished culinary veteran Robert Benett as its new executive chef. With experience cooking in luxury hotels across the country and learning under the direction of celebrity chefs.
The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett welcomes Ashley Castillo as Director of Food and Beverage
The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett, a four-star full-service hotel set to open in March 2024, has named Ashley Castillo its director of food and beverage. In her new role, Castillo will manage all dining, catering and room service operations at The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett, including the hotel’s signature rooftop bar and ground-level restaurant.
Hawaii Life appoints Mike Despard new Broker-In-Charge in Kona, Hawaii
Hawaiʻi Life, the leading residential real estate brokerage in the state of Hawaii, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Despard as broker-in-charge in Kona on Hawai‘i Island. Despard has over 30 years of experience in real estate development, design and construction industries and is in his ninth year with Hawaiʻi Life.
Erin Beadle appointed General Manager at The Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton is thrilled to welcome Erin Beadle as its new General Manager. Beadle, who brings 17 years of hotel management, operations and sales experience to the role, is tasked with creating and executing strategies that further differentiate the historic property and cementing its world-class guest experience.
Ernesto Fernandez appointed General Manager at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, an upscale resort located just steps away from the Gulf of Mexico and Pier 60, welcomes Ernesto Fernandez as general manager. In his new role, Fernandez will oversee the daily operations of the 286-room resort including the on-site spa, more than 20,000 square feet of functional meeting space, and multiple on-site restaurants.
Hani Abulafi appointed Hotel Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Tunis in La Marsa
Four Seasons Hotel Tunis announces the appointment of Hani Abulafi as Hotel Manager. Holding the role of second management position at the luxury address in the leafy Gammarth section of the Tunisian capital, Abulafi has oversight of all operations with an objective of setting the tone for success throughout the property.
Aqua-Aston Hospitality appoints General Manager at Aston Islander on the Beach
Aqua-Aston Hospitality announces Casie Riopta’s appointment to general manager at Aston Islander on the Beach. One of the closest resorts to the ocean on Kauai, Aston Islander on the Beach is a peaceful retreat set on six acres of tropical floral gardens amongst the Island’s lush Coconut Coast. The property features plantation-style architecture, numerous leisure amenities including an oceanfront pool with whirlpool spas and proximity to Kauai’s most popular attractions in the lively town of Kapaa.
Jason C. Bass appointed Director of Culture and Programming at Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead
Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead, the urban lifestyle luxury hotel located in one of Atlanta’s most desirable neighborhoods, announces Jason C. Bass as Director of Culture and Programming. In this role, Bass curates a range of culturally diverse programming, oversees community-focused brand strategy and collaborates with external partners to enhance guest experience.
Hotel Investor Apps welcomes New VP for West Coast
Hotel Investor Apps (HIA), the advanced accounting and business intelligence company, has appointed Candra Valley (Rader) as Regional VP of Sales – West.
