Executives in the hospitality industry have taken new roles. Here’s a look:
Marriott appoints chief development officers in Asia-Pacific, Greater China
Marriott International Inc. has named two chief development officers to support its expansion plans in Asia-Pacific. Effective Jan. 1, Shawn Hill will take on the role of chief development officer for Asia-Pacific (excluding Greater China) and Gavin Yu will become the chief development officer for Greater China.
These appointments follow the recent announcement that Paul Foskey, the outgoing chief development officer for Asia-Pacific, will retire in May 2022. The newly created roles will ensure that both Greater China and the rest of Asia-Pacific receive dedicated leadership and focus as the company continues to expand its footprint across the region.
Hill brings 16 years of experience in development leadership roles and has been with Marriott International since 1997. Previously, he served as SVP, hotel development – Asia Pacific, where he was instrumental in expanding Marriott International’s presence in Japan and positioning Marriott as the hotel chain with the most brand offerings in the country. He began his Marriott career as a senior project accountant in the Architecture and Construction department. In 1999, he transitioned to the Lodging Finance department and later moved to Global Asset Management before joining the Asia-Pacific development organization.
Yu most recently served as SVP, hotel development – China. A 13-year veteran of the company, he played a key role in establishing China’s upper-midscale growth strategy, including leading China’s franchise platform for Fairfield Inn and Moxy. He began his career with the company as a director in development. In 2013, he became a VP in development, where he established the company’s Shanghai development office.
Virgin Hotels names Orlich to North American operations post
Virgin Hotels has appointed Todd Orlich to the role of VP of operations – North America. In his new role, he oversees the day-to-day operations and works closely with the senior leadership team to develop and execute the strategic plan to drive growth and profitability.
Orlich, who will be based in Miami, brings more than 25 years of experience to the brand, and will be responsible for the operational performance of Virgin Hotels Chicago, Virgin Hotels Dallas, Virgin Hotels Nashville and the newly opened Virgin Hotels New Orleans, as well as the forthcoming properties in New York City and Miami.
“Todd’s leadership will be extremely valuable as he brings an enthusiasm for the brand, our teammates and a passion for performance,” said James Bermingham, CEO, Virgin Hotels. “With Todd’s arrival, we strengthen an already dynamic team, providing exceptional heartfelt service and as well as a deep understanding of the hospitality industry as we continue to expand our brand in North America and Europe.”
Orlich said, “I am delighted and honored to be joining Virgin Hotels during this exciting time. I’m confident together we can exceed the high expectations of both our team and guests as we continue to build upon the success of the brand.”
Most recently, Orlich was managing director of 1 Hotel Toronto, where he was responsible for the opening of Toronto’s newest luxury hotel overseeing all aspects of preopening construction, operations and training, including developing cutting edge sustainability initiatives for the eco-conscious brand. Previously, he was regional VP/GM of Delano for SBE including overseeing the portfolio of sbe hotels in Miami. Prior to sbe, Orlich was general manager at Montage Laguna Beach and Montage Beverly Hills, and has also held leadership roles at Loews and Starwood Hotels.