Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has appointed Bart Carnahan as Executive Vice President, Global Business Development. Effective November 9, 2015, Carnahan will oversee Four Seasons global development efforts, working collaboratively with teams around the world to support the company’s growth objectives and build on the reputation of Four Seasons as the partner of choice for luxury hotel and residential projects.
“Bart’s impressive record of success, sophisticated understanding of our industry and the development landscape, as well as his ability to recognise and realise new development and conversion opportunities, will be instrumental in helping us advance our global growth objectives,” says J. Allen Smith, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
“Equally as important, Bart shares an appreciation for the people, culture and values that define Four Seasons – values that are fundamental in building and managing successful long-term relationships with our development partners and hotel owners,” continues Smith.
A seasoned development executive, Carnahan joins Four Seasons from Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide where he spent the last eight years as Senior Vice President Acquisitions & Development, EAME, responsible for Starwood’s growth strategy throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East, for all of Starwood’s ten brands. During his time at Starwood Carnahan built and regionally aligned one of the industry’s most effective and value generating development teams, increasing net hotel additions year on year.
Prior to Starwood, Bart spent 18 years with Marriott International in various roles, including his last position as SVP Development.
Commenting on the new role, Carnahan says, “It is a tremendous privilege to join the world-class Four Seasons team as we work together to capitalise on market opportunities, driving the portfolio’s expansion and expanding our presence in key gateway cities and destinations around the world.”
Currently based in Brussels, Carnahan will be relocating to Four Seasons global development office in London and will report to Four Seasons President and CEO J. Allen Smith.
