Best Western Hotels & Resorts announced that its Board of Directors has elected Terry Bichsel as Board Chairman for 2017. Bichsel brings more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having held executive management positions at several notable companies. His background and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the brand as Best Western builds off of recent accomplishments including record-setting RevPAR growth, the creation of a new and innovative white label brand, and the launch of a new digital platform.
“Since joining the Board of Directors, Mr. Bichsel has played a key leadership role in the unprecedented successes our brand has achieved,” said Best Western Hotels & Resorts President and CEO David Kong. “With his strategic and thoughtful approach to our industry and company, I am confident that 2017 will be another groundbreaking year for our timeless brand.”
Bichsel was elected to the Best Western Hotels & Resorts Board of Directors in 2014 to represent the interest of Best Western hotels owners in seven western states including Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, and Canada’s western provinces. Bichsel previously served as the Secretary-Treasurer in 2015 and Vice-Chairman in 2016.
“I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to serve as Chairman of the Board for this industry-leading brand,” said Board Chairman for Best Western Hotels & Resorts Terry Bichsel. “In the year ahead, we will build on our brand’s exceptional momentum which has positioned Best Western as an innovative company exceeding the expectations of both today and tomorrow’s travelers around the world.”
Bichsel, a certified hotel administrator, started his hospitality career at an early age and became a general manager at 22 years old. He has worked throughout the United States serving as general manager of several hotels and regional vice president for multiple branded hotels. He has held senior-level executive management positions for industry leaders including John Q. Hammons Hotels, Inc. (Springfield, Missouri), the Parks & Resorts Division for ARAMARK Corporation (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), and all tours and land-based operations for Holland America Cruise Line (Seattle, Washington). Bichsel launched his own company in 2002.
