IHG adds SVP, global sales; more people on the move

Hospitality companies are filling executive positions, including the addition of a new SVP, global sales at IHG.

IHG Hotels & Resorts appoints Mark Sergot as SVP, global sales
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), has appointed Mark Sergot as its new SVP, global sales.

He joined IHG in 2020 as VP, global sales operations & enablement. In that role, he played a significant role in advancing the global sales organization to improve commercial performance and drive solutions across the global B2B customer buying journey, the company reports.

In his new role, Sergot leads the company’s global B2B sales organization, overseeing the Americas & global accounts team as well as all facets of global sales strategy, programs, operations, effectiveness, tradeshows, events and B2B marketing. He will be focused on leading his teams to ensure IHG continues to provide a world-class sales experience across its global portfolio of B2B customers, the company reports.

“I am confident that Mark’s passionate leadership, his extensive experience in customer relationship management and operational excellence will further drive the success of our global sales organization,” said Elie Maalouf, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts”

Prior to joining IHG, Sergot spent more than 16 years with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, where he held several sales leadership roles including SVP of the global sales organization, which included responsibility for the 700 property-based sellers as well as global salespeople deployed around the world in support of the Fairmont, Raffles & Swissotel brands. He also served as the chief sales officer for Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI).

Jeff Baltzer named chief investment officer of Rebel Hospitality
Rebel Hospitality has appointed Jeff Baltzer as its chief investment officer. In his new role, he leads the company’s growth and expansion efforts where he will direct all aspects of business development, acquisitions and third-party management.

“Jeff’s diverse experience with acquisitions, investments and development along with his attention to detail in all levels of the hospitality industry made him the ideal choice for this executive leadership position at Rebel Hospitality,” said Brian Sparacino, president/CEO, Rebel Hospitality. “The team, our current portfolio and future projects will benefit from Jeff’s extensive industry knowledge as we look to expand our footprint across the U.S.”

Baltzer brings more than 15 years of hospitality industry experience to the executive position. Prior to joining Rebel, he was SVP, development and acquisitions at Magna Hospitality Group in Warwick, RI. he joined Magna in 2013.

Baltzer began his career as a director of finance for Marriott International where he established the foundation to lead both the operational and investment sides of the hospitality business. He then was director of finance for The Ritz-Carlton brand solidifying his understanding of the luxury hospitality market. In 2011, he joined Carr Hospitality in Washington, DC, and was responsible for asset management of a $1-billion hotel portfolio of upscale properties in the DC area including the Willard Intercontinental.

HVMG adds Wilson Turner
Hospitality Ventures Management Group (HVMG), an Atlanta-based, private hotel investment, ownership and management company, has named Wilson Turner VP, HR programs and support.

In his new role, he further augments and implements HR solutions, programs and processes aligned with HVMG’s strategic plan and culture.

“While not immune from the ebbs and flows of sourcing and retention, we put our talent and associate engagement front and center,” said Robert Cole, president/CEO, HVMG. “Wilson has excellent experience in human resources, giving him a wealth of knowledge and tools to support our teams and navigate the talent challenges facing our industry right now.”

With more than 30 years of HR experience across multiple industries, Turner joined HVMG in 2020 as director of HR following a one-year role as an onsite human resources specialist with Paychex/Oasis. Previously, he was HR director with OrthoSensor Inc., where he was responsible for the creation, evolution, leadership and strategic/daily direction of the innovative, start-up technology-based medical device company’s HR division. He has held similar roles with Cox Media Group, Tampa Bay Times Publishing Co., E-One and Tyson Foods.

Avistone names Youngbin Park VP, lodging investments
Avistone, a real estate private equity and investment management firm, has named Youngbin Park, VP, lodging investments.

A 15-year-plus lodging investment veteran, he has overseen more than $1.1 billion in hotel acquisitions through institutional investment funds and joint ventures. In his new role, he leads the company’s efforts to expand its hotel investment portfolio. Prior to joining Avistone, he held increasingly important roles with well-respected organizations such as Hersha Hospitality Management, Brookfield’s Thayer Lodging Group, Trimont Real Estate Advisors and Silverpeak Real Estate Partners.

“Youngbin has amassed invaluable experience handling all manner of hotel investments and acquisitions during his career, skills we plan to implement immediately as we pursue our own aggressive growth goals,” Culler added.  “He is the ideal candidate to expand our portfolio of well-respected, branded hotels in markets with barriers to new entry and high resilience to negative economic factors, such as multiple demand generators.”

The company also reported that Charlie Muller, managing director, lodging investments, who has been instrumental in launching the company’s hotel sector investments, will be transitioning into an advisory role where his knowledge and expertise will continue to benefit Avistone and its investors.  “We would not be where we are as a hotel entity today without Charlie’s tireless efforts,” Culler said. “We look forward to continuing this new relationship together as we each enter new phases of growth.”