The Omni Homestead Resort is pleased to announce that Managing Director, Mark Spadoni, has been honored with General Manager Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). This accolade recognizes Spadoni’s valuable leadership, dedication to hospitality, and his pivotal role in leading in a new era for The Omni Homestead Resort following its $170 million property-wide renovation, which celebrated its grand reopening last fall.
Spadoni accepted the award on Monday, October 28, 2024, in the presence of industry peers and leaders during the annual conference at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. His tenure at The Omni Homestead Resort has been instrumental in enhancing the guest experience and enriching the property’s historical significance. Recent renovations included upgrades across 483 guest rooms, a new 4,000-square-foot event pavilion, 72,000 square feet of meeting space, new dining and beverage options and a rehabilitation to the Warm Springs Pools. Under Spadoni’s guidance, these enhancements have strengthened the resort’s status as a premier luxury destination and a Virginia landmark in the Allegheny Mountains.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from AHLA,” said Spadoni. “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with great teams who understand the importance of hard work, passion, and dedication. The Omni Homestead Resort team continues to uphold and enhance the legacy of this incredible resort, welcoming guests to enjoy both its rich history and contemporary luxury.”
With a hospitality career spanning over 40 years, Spadoni has held executive roles at prestigious resorts, including the AAA Four Diamond Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa, leading his team to win accolades from Westin, Conde Nast Traveler, and Golfweek. A community leader, he founded the Savannah Harbor Foundation, supporting children’s charities, and co-created the Savannah VOICE Experience/Festival, enriching the arts locally and globally. In March 2020, he received the Savannah Tourism Council’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Spadoni has also served on the boards of the Savannah Convention Center, Tourism Council, Visit Savannah, and Chamber of Commerce. Since arriving at The Omni Homestead in 2021, his leadership has been crucial to preserving the resort’s heritage and charm while introducing modern amenities that meet today’s travelers’ needs.
“Congratulations to Mark on receiving the GM Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition celebrates his remarkable dedication, professionalism, and the profound impact he has made on our brand and the hospitality industry. Mark’s commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, his stewardship of The Omni Homestead, and his embodiment of the Omni ‘Trilogy’ of owners, guests, and associates is inspiring. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and grateful for his leadership,” said Kurt Alexander, President of Omni Hotels & Resorts.
