Hotel management company Palette Hotels has appointed Joseph Yi as chief investment officer. In his new role, he will oversee the firm’s investment platform, grow the company’s corporate-owned and third-party asset management portfolio and lead strategic growth initiatives.
“With cumulative experience in more than $4 billion in hotel-related transactions, Joseph brings deep expertise in sourcing and structuring complex deals, forming programmatic joint ventures, raising institutional capital and optimizing investment returns,” said Richard Lou, CEO, Palette. “His leadership has consistently aligned cross-functional teams, capital partners and operational stakeholders to deliver strategic value and long-term growth, making him the ideal candidate to expand Palette’s portfolio as we continue to grow nationally.”
Over the past 20 years, Yi has gained experience in acquisitions, capital markets, asset management and strategic development. He previously held chief investment officer roles at Frontier Development & Hospitality Group and Real Hospitality Group. In his position with Real Hospitality Group, he played a role in the firm’s expansion from 40 to more than 100 hotels, launched its first investment vehicle in 2017 and directed more than $100 million in lodging asset acquisitions. He also led the company’s global expansion, establishing its first international venture in China. Prior to that, he was VP of investments and general counsel at Lam Group and managing director of acquisitions with SHVO.
“Richard has done far more than simply assembling industry veterans—he’s built a team that reflects the fresh thinking, diverse perspectives and cross-sector experience that the hospitality world needs right now,” Yi said. “I’m thrilled to be part of a company redefining what it means to lead in this space.”
