Castlerock plots growth, makes key appointments 

Castlerock Asset Management, an integrated real estate development, ownership, marketing, hospitality management and asset management firm, has unveiled its strategic positioning for growth into dynamic markets. To accelerate these initiatives, Castlerock has made three executive appointments in key roles.

The markets include Austin; Chicago; Detroit; Fort Worth, TX; Los Angeles; Venice Beach, CA; New Orleans; New York (23rd to Canal); Savannah, GA; and Washington, DC. Additionally, Castlerock remains committed to exploring opportunities within its home base of Nashville.

The new executive leaders will report directly to Seamus Ross, founder/CEO, who said, “We’re on the cusp of an exciting new phase of expansion and progress here at Castlerock Asset Management. As we venture into new markets, our mission remains steadfast: to carve out a dynamic future for our asset management team and the Bobby Hotel brand, all the while enhancing the communities we have the privilege to serve.”

Jeff Crabiel will assume the role of chief hospitality officer, overseeing the operational management function and day-to-day success of Castlerock’s branded and independent hotels, including future developments. Bringing more than 17 years of experience, Crabiel has a long-standing relationship with Castlerock, previously serving as the area general manager for the Bobby Hotel and The Westin Nashville. He also served as the director of rooms/executive assistant manager at The Westin Nashville where he spearheaded the property’s opening and migration into the Marriott portfolio.

Hart Wilson has joined Castlerock as VP, acquisitions & development, leveraging his decade-long experience in hotel real estate. Before Castlerock, he served as a VP in JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group, specializing in investment sales and debt & equity placement. He initially joined JLL in 2019 through its acquisition of Holliday Fenoglio Fowler (HFF). Beginning his career at Access Point Financial, Wilson has underwritten and transacted on more than $2 billion in hotels.

Joel Morales, who will lead the overall business marketing strategy, advertising, communications and brand-building functions as the chief marketing officer, has more than 20 years of experience shaping luxury and lifestyle brands. Previously serving as the company’s area director of marketing and public relations for Bobby Hotel and The Westin Nashville, Morales will continue to work closely with leadership to develop a framework in support of the company’s future growth objectives. Prior to joining Castlerock, he was the CEO for ext.54, where he led integrated marketing efforts for global clientele such W Hotels, Lollapalooza and AllSaints.