Essex Hotel Management has filled a newly created position, while Hyatt has added to its development team in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Essex Hotel Management creates new corporate role
Essex Hotel Management LLC has promoted Yomara De Jesus to the newly created corporate position of task force lead.
In her new role, she is responsible for implementing operational strategies for Essex’s portfolio of hotels on the East Coast and assisting with transitions. She reports directly to Chris Mellone, VP, operations at Essex.
“As our portfolio grows and expands geographically, it was necessary to add operational support,” said John Kattato, SVP, operations, Essex. “While a lot of time is spent on new-builds and acquisitions prior to actually opening and transitioning, there is a lot to do after the fact. Having someone else that is dedicated to spending extended time on-site is critical so the existing portfolio continues to get the attention needed. Yomara provides that next level of support.”
De Jesus joined Essex in 2008 as an executive housekeeper at a newly opened Hampton Inn before being promoted to assistant general manager. She then served nine years as the property’s general manager. As a native Spanish speaker, she has also been instrumental in ensuring Essex’s policies and procedures can be understood by all team members, the company reports.
“In addition to being one of our best on-property team members, Yomara has provided invaluable assistance with hotel openings, property acquisitions and management transitions during the 14 years she’s been with us,” Kattato said. “Her personality and management style really resonates with our property teams. We’re very fortunate to have her join the Essex corporate team in this new role.”
Hyatt strengthens Latin America and Caribbean team
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has appointed Camilo Bolaños to SVP, development for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Bolaños, who previously served as VP, real estate and development, is now responsible for leading Hyatt’s development strategy in the Latin America and Caribbean region to drive growth across its Timeless Collection, Boundless Collection and Independent Collection brand portfolios. He reports to Pete Sears, group president, Hyatt Americas.
To meet strategic growth goals in the Americas region, Hyatt is strengthening its development team deployment with dedicated leadership spearheading efforts across the U.S. and Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean. David Tarr, SVP, development for the Americas, will continue leading the company’s development in the U.S. and Canada.
“Latin America and the Caribbean continue to play a key role for the Americas region’s growth for Hyatt as leisure travel continues to fuel demand,” said Sears. “As we look ahead, we are incredibly optimistic about our intentional expansion and further investing in resources to champion regional growth strategies. Camilo has been a true asset to growth of our brands in Latin America and Caribbean, and I look forward to the continued positive impact he will make as we introduce new brands in new markets that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members and customers.”
In his previous role as VP, real estate and development for the Americas, Bolaños was focused on development and strategic business planning with an emphasis on Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. He joined Hyatt in 2009 and has led the development and completion of real estate transactions for more than 50 projects, continually achieving year-over-year financial development results. He is a 20-year industry veteran having held senior-level positions at leading companies like Real Hotels and Resorts, Avianca Airlines and Carlson Restaurants Worldwide.