The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is pleased to announce two appointments to the dynamic leadership team, Katharine Degoma as General Manager and Anna Jaszczyk as Director of Sales & Marketing. The hotel was recently ranked #1 in Chicago and #8 in the world in the Condé Nast “Best Hotels in the World: 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.”
Named for the renowned 20th-century female sculptor Gwen Lux, whose bas relief sculptures adorn the building’s façade, The Gwen pays tribute to a female artisan making a mark in a predominantly 1930’s male design city. As the newest appointed leaders making a mark at The Gwen today, Degoma and Jaszczyk bring a similarly exciting creative vision and atmosphere of innovation.
Katharine Degoma, General Manager
Katharine Degoma is an experienced General Manager, bringing 20-plus years of leadership expertise in hotel operations management and sales leadership. Hotel openings, renovations, and brand conversions have been at the forefront of her accomplishments, most recently creating and executing a plan to convert independent Ambassador Chicago hotel to a lifestyle-boutique hotel as a JdV by Hyatt brand within the Hyatt portfolio.
“We’re honored to welcome Katharine to The Gwen,” said Danny Estavez, Area Managing Director at HEI. “Katharine’s experience in multiple hotel markets for both brand-managed and franchise operations combined with her deep understanding of the Chicago market ensure that The Gwen will move confidently with ease into a new era.”
As General Manager at Hyatt Regency Deerfield, Degoma oversaw a $14 million guest room renovation and $1 million overhaul of the property meetings space.
“I thrive in the dynamic atmosphere the hospitality industry offers and enjoy caring for people so they can be their best,” said Katharine Degoma. “There is an incredible synergy between the executive team and the performance, sales and operations teams that’s going to further our efforts to deliver unparalleled experiences to our guests.”
A suburban Chicago native, Degoma comes from a large family of accomplished athletes. Competition flows through her veins and she thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic atmosphere – making the hospitality industry a perfect match.
Anna Jaszczyk, Director of Sales & Marketing
Anna Jaszczyk, Director of Sales & MarketingAnna Jaszczyk joins The Gwen as the Director of Sales & Marketing. Most recently she was Director of Group Sales at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago. Jaszczyk started her career in hospitality with Marriott International at the Northern Mid-America Regional Sales Office representing various Marriot properties across ten Mid-western States. She then became Senior Sales Manager at The Hotel Chicago (HEI), where she was the 2018 Winner’s Circle Recipient and Manager of the Year.
“With a record of success and numerous accolades to her name, we can’t think of a more qualified person to broaden our reputation as one of the world’s best hotels,” said Katharine Degoma, General Manager. “Under Anna’s leadership, our sales team is poised to exceed guest expectations and deliver on larger business revenue goals.”
Anna was born and raised in Poland – though she did spend a bit of time in Chicago as a child. She moved to the US in 2009 and is now a dual citizen of both the US and Poland.
“Representation of women in hospitality industry leadership continues to be of great importance,” said Jaszczyk. “To be in the position to represent, sell, and market The Gwen alongside an all-star female team is an incredible motivator and opportunity.”
