Insider Stories

Keisha Smith has been appointed EVP and Chief People and Culture Officer at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
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Keisha Smith has been appointed EVP and Chief People and Culture Officer at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
Four Seasons, the world's leading luxury hospitality company, announces the appointment of Keisha Smith as Executive Vice President and Chief People and Culture Officer, effective January 6, 2025. Based at the company's corporate office in Miami, Keisha joins the Executive Leadership Team and reports directly to Four Seasons President and CEO Alejandro Reynal. Keisha will play a key role in maintaining and enriching the company's celebrated culture and people-centric focus, ensuring these priorities remain a longstanding competitive advantage to attract, retain and develop best-in-class talent worldwide. She will oversee the strategy and execution of all aspects of the company's global People and Culture, Internal Communications and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) efforts. With a storied career that spans more than two decades, Keisha has a strong and celebrated reputation as a transformative Human Resources executive. She currently serves as an Independent Director and member of the Human Capital Committee for Unity Software (U). She has held senior HR roles at public and privately held companies across the fashion, media, and financial services industries. Before joining Four Seasons, Keisha served as the Chief People Officer at Tory Burch, where her talent strategies led to the company achieving its highest employee engagement scores. Previously, Keisha held roles at News Corp and Morgan Stanley as Chief Human Resources Officer and Global co-head of Talent Management respectively where she established a track record for enabling business growth while fostering environments where employees thrive. Keisha holds a BA in International Relations from the University of Virginia and is a Hudson Institute Certified Executive Coach.
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Angela Nolan has been appointed Vice President at Highgate in Honolulu
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Angela Nolan has been appointed Vice President at Highgate in Honolulu
Throughout her 30-year career in the hospitality industry, Nolan has held multiple leadership positions at properties including the Kapalua Bay Hotel; Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa; the Trump International Hotel, Las Vegas; and the Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate, Las Vegas. In 2010, Nolan returned to Maui as Hotel Manager for The Westin Kā'anapali Ocean Resort Villas. Shortly thereafter, she assumed the role of General Manager and later became Area Managing Director and Regional Vice President of Operations for Vistana Signature Experiences, formally known as Starwood Vacation Ownership. Most recently, Nolan led as Market General Manager for Marriott Vacations Worldwide. With visionary oversight for the dynamic region from Group President, Kelly Sanders and the Highgate Regional Taskforce, Randy Diamond will lead as Vice President of Operations for the growing portfolio of independent hotels managed by Highgate Hawaii including 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, Kaimana Beach Hotel and Romer House Waikiki, among others. Angela Nolan will lead as Vice President of Operations for eight branded assets including Twin Fin Waikiki, Hilton Garden Inn Kauai and AC Hotel by Marriott Honolulu, among others.
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Yasuhiro Toshida Appointed Executive Chef of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
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  • Article tag: Asia
Yasuhiro Toshida Appointed Executive Chef of Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto announces the appointment of Yasuhiro Toshida as its new Executive Chef. With more than 30 years of culinary experience spanning several renowned brands in Japan, Chef Toshida takes charge of the Hotel’s diverse culinary operations, including EMBA KYOTO CHOPHOUSE, The Lounge & Bar, Fuju Lounge, Sushi Ginza Onodera and In-Room Dining. For Toshida, his role extends beyond ensuring excellence in the kitchen to curating the ambience, the feel, of each outlet. “Excellent food is a given, especially when you’re talking about acclaimed restaurants with talented chefs. But beyond that, what makes a dining experience exceptional is the sense of engagement, surprise and delight we’re able to create for our guests,” he says, emphasizing the importance of joy – his favourite not-so-secret ingredient. Besides an uplifting touch, Toshida also brings a renewed focus on seasonality, with his deep expertise in the Japanese market standing as a bridge between Kyoto’s small producers and Four Seasons international talents. Leading the effort to procure local ingredients at their peak, he will be working directly with farmers, foragers and fisheries within the Kyoto community. Culinary innovation is a happy by-product of this approach, as he explains: “Using uncommon ingredients, available in limited quantities, inspires our chefs to create fresh and exciting offerings. Every time guests return to the Hotel, there will be something new to discover.” Born in Ibaraki Prefecture, Toshida grew up immersed in the world of cooking, thanks to his grandparents’ high-end kappo restaurant. In fact, he was all of 10 when he decided he wanted to become a professional chef! Following his education at Musashino Culinary College in Tokyo, he was part of the kitchen team at Chinzan-so Tokyo when it became a Four Seasons hotel. This was his first brush with global luxury hospitality and he absolutely loved it, going on to hone his craft and climb the ladder across some of Tokyo’s most reputed hotels. In 2013, he stepped out of his comfort zone to join the HYWWJP Corporation as executive chef, taking charge of 10 restaurants in Tokyo and Osaka, with cuisines ranging from Italian and Chinese to Mexican and sushi. Partnering with the celebrated Chef Hidemasa Yamamoto, he also played an instrumental role in the opening of a new five-star hotel in Tokyo. Marking a departure from the typical chef’s journey in Japan, this was a game-changing assignment for Toshida: “I had to consistently work with new people and new concepts, which called for a more flexible and open-minded approach. Through this job, I developed an entrepreneurial mindset.” Next came a rewarding stint with a hotel in Shizuoka Prefecture, where he explored his passion for seasonal produce, tracking down rare ingredients that galvanized the entire culinary program. Most recently, he served as executive sous chef for the opening of an ultra-luxury hotel in Tokyo, including the launch of a new restaurant in collaboration with a 3 Michelin star sushi brand. Under Chef Toshida’s adept leadership, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is set to commence a new chapter of culinary prowess. Guests can look forward to a series of enhancements in the coming months, including hyper-seasonal menus, an elevated breakfast experience, and creative in-room amenities that honour Kyoto’s flavourful legacy.
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Sumana Bose Choudhary Appointed Director of Sales at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet - Marriott Executive Apartments
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Sumana Bose Choudhary Appointed Director of Sales at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet - Marriott Executive Apartments
The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet – Marriott Executive Apartments is pleased to announce the appointment of Sumana Bose Choudhary as the new Director of Sales. With over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sumana brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and strategic vision to her new role. A Strong Foundation in Hospitality Excellence Sumana Bose Choudhary holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Tourism Management from Annamalai University and has a distinguished career that spans multiple cities across India, including Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi. Her impressive track record includes leadership roles with renowned hospitality brands such as Marriott, Hyatt, Accor, Carlson Rezidor, and The Park, where she honed her expertise in operational excellence, team management, and strategic leadership. A Journey of Growth and Adaptability Having worked in diverse markets, Sumana's career has evolved from an operational role to positions of greater responsibility, where she learned the importance of balancing execution with supervision and decision-making. Each phase of her career has strengthened her ability to understand the nuances of different guest demographics, brand standards, and city-specific challenges. "At every stage, I've learned how to adapt to evolving environments, manage teams effectively, and elevate guest experiences. My journey has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of continuous learning," said Sumana. Vision for The Westin: Elevating Service and Driving Sustainable Growth In her new role, Sumana is committed to driving operational excellence at The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake & Lakeside Chalet. With her extensive background in leading high-performing teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences, she envisions taking the property to new heights. "I aim to enhance personalized service, implement innovative strategies, and foster a motivated workforce. My vision is to drive sustainable growth, strengthen brand loyalty, and position The Westin as a market leader in hospitality," she said. Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones Sumana's career has not been without its challenges. One of her most significant hurdles has been adapting to different markets and cultures while managing diverse teams and meeting the expectations of a varied guest base. Her approach to overcoming these challenges has been one of embracing continuous learning and maintaining strong communication across teams. "Every environment brought its own set of challenges, but by staying adaptable and cultivating resilience, I learned to thrive," she reflects. Among the highlights of Sumana’s career are her successful leadership in the launch of Kolkata’s first and largest Accor hotel and the prestigious debut of The JW Marriott in Kolkata, which set new standards in the city’s hospitality industry. Words of Wisdom and Philosophy As she takes on her new role, Sumana shares advice for younger professionals: "Stay curious, embrace challenges, and trust the process. Focus on building strong relationships, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Every experience, whether success or failure, is a step toward growth." Her motto in both life and work is simple yet powerful: "Strive for excellence, embrace growth, and make a positive impact in every step."
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Philip Steiner has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cycas Hospitality BV
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  • Article tag: Europe
Philip Steiner has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Cycas Hospitality BV
Cycas Hospitality has announced the appointment of Philip Steiner as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Portugal. He will be responsible for guiding strategy and overseeing operational performance in these key regions. Philip Steiner has extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Prior to this appointment, he served as General Manager of the Bankside Hotel in London, a Marriott Autograph Collection property. Under his leadership, the hotel rose into the top 10 London hotels on TripAdvisor and was awarded the "Best of the Best" 2024 title. The hotel also achieved an impressive 87% guest recommendation score according to Guestvoice, placing it among the top 10 Autograph Collection hotels in the EMEA region and the top Marriott hotel in the UK. Since joining Cycas Hospitality in 2018, Philip Steiner has held several strategic roles, including Director of Accommodations and Serviced Apartments, and later led the Moxy & Residence Inn by Marriott complex in Slough, which has 244 rooms. A graduate of the International Hotelschool in The Hague, Philip Steiner has worked at various prestigious European establishments throughout his career, including Rome Cavalieri, as well as hotels within the Hilton and Starwood groups through ISS Facility Services. He is also active in professional organizations, serving on the London regional board of the Institute of Hospitality and as an Ambassador for Hospitality Action. This appointment reflects Cycas Hospitality's commitment to strengthening its leadership and supporting its expansion across Europe. Philip Steiner will play a key role in helping the company achieve its goals in these strategic markets.
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The Residence Douz Appoints Anis Zayana as New General Manager
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  • Article tag: Africa
The Residence Douz Appoints Anis Zayana as New General Manager
The Residence Douz, Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts' second Tunisian property, has announced the appointment of Anis Zayana as its new General Manager. With several years of experience leading prestigious establishments, Anis brings a wealth of expertise that perfectly aligns with the hotel's commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.  Anis Zayana brings an impressive background in hotel management, having led several renowned properties across Tunisia and Algeria. Prior to joining The Residence Douz, he served as the General Manager of the Golden Yasmin Les Oliviers Palace Hotel in Sfax and headed the Ras El Ain Hotel in Tozeur. A graduate of the Certified Hotel Administrator program from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute in Florida, Anis has earned a reputation as a dedicated leader, seamlessly implementing his knowledge in both management and human resources.   Anis Zayana, General Manager of The Residence Douz said, “I am honoured to join this extraordinary property and the Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts family. As the first desert retreat for the brand, The Residence Douz is a true gateway to the Sahara, and I am excited to lead the team in establishing its legacy in the region. Together, we will create unforgettable experiences for our guests, ensuring this remarkable destination leaves a lasting mark on the luxury hospitality landscape.”  Surrounded by golden dunes and swaying palms, The Residence Douz features 50 elegant villas, two gourmet restaurants, an infinity pool and a luxurious Spa by Clarins. Each villa, from the Sahara Deluxe and Sahara Prestige to the exclusive Royal Oasis and Royal Mirage suites, boasts panoramic views of the sweeping desert landscapes, luxurious amenities, and private relaxation spaces designed for guests to unwind after days spent exploring. 
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Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel, Nashville Welcomes Shannon Foster as General Manager
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Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel, Nashville Welcomes Shannon Foster as General Manager
Dolly Parton’s highly anticipated SongTeller Hotel is pleased to announce the appointment of Shannon Foster as its General Manager. Foster joins the team as the property builds momentum for its grand opening, slated for 2026. In her new role, Foster will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s operations, optimizing business development, financial performance and spearheading both guest and host experiences through elevated programming and activations.  “We are thrilled to welcome Shannon to the SongTeller Hotel team as her proven leadership, operational expertise and passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences makes her the perfect fit to help bring Dolly’s vision to life,” said William R. Doyle III, senior vice president of hospitality, Herschend Family Entertainment. “We’re excited to have her lead our team as we prepare to open a destination that celebrates Dolly Parton’s legendary career and signature Southern hospitality.” With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Foster brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to this exciting new venture. Most recently, Foster served as Vice President of Operations for Hotel Equities, Greenwood Hospitality Division, where she oversaw several lifestyle properties under the Hilton and Marriott brands. As a long-time Nashville resident, Foster has also held executive roles at two of the city’s most esteemed properties: Noelle and Holston House hotels.
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Noble House Hotels & Resorts Appoints Gregg Harper as General Manager at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
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Noble House Hotels & Resorts Appoints Gregg Harper as General Manager at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
Noble House Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce the appointment of Gregg Harper to General Manager of  LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort. In this role, Harper will oversee all aspects of the 189-room property and private club, including operations, sales and marketing, food and beverage, and revenue management, ensuring its continued success. “We are thrilled to welcome Gregg to the LaPlaya family as our new General Manager,” said Linda Menshon, area director of sales and marketing at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort. “With more than 30 years of hotel leadership experience, we are confident Gregg will make a lasting impact on our award-winning property, fostering exceptional guest relations and driving profitability.” Before joining Noble House, Harper served as Area General Manager/Managing Director at CoralTree Hospitality, where he oversaw a portfolio of resorts, including Tamarack Resort, The Woodlands Resort, and The Westin at The Woodlands, from 2017 to 2024. Previously, he held General Manager positions at Hotel Becket and with Crescent Hotels and Resorts, managing properties such as Salishan Coastal Lodge, The Oxford Hotel Bend, and Holiday Isle Resort. “It is truly an honor to join the team at the iconic LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort on Florida’s Paradise Coast,” said Harper. “I look forward to working alongside LaPlaya’s talented professionals to elevate the guest experience and uphold the resort’s reputation for excellence. Together, we will continue to create unforgettable memories for our guests.” As General Manager, Harper will leverage his extensive hospitality expertise to lead LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort operations, ensuring growth, superior guest service, and outstanding food and beverage experiences. He will collaborate with Noble House leadership to drive the resort’s success while maintaining its status as a premier destination on Florida’s Paradise Coast.
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John Beriker has been appointed Executive Chef at BALEEN Naples at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
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  • Article tag: Europe
John Beriker has been appointed Executive Chef at BALEEN Naples at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort
BALEEN Naples, an award-winning beachfront restaurant located within the luxurious LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, is thrilled to appoint award-winning Chef John Beriker as the new Executive Chef. Chef Beriker brings over 30 years of international culinary expertise, refined through formal training at the renowned Epicurean Cooking School in Los Angeles, California. His exceptional skills were honed under the mentorship of culinary icons Wolfgang Puck, Jean-Marie Josselin, Roy Yamaguchi and Martin Yan. Chef Beriker spent much of his life in Canada before immigrating to the United States to establish his culinary career, which began at the Black Orchid Hotel in Morristown, New Jersey. Since then, he has held prestigious Executive Chef roles at globally distinguished five-star resorts, including Dusit Thani Resort & Spa and Sheraton Laguna Resort in Tumon Bay, Guam, Swissotel Merchant Court Hotel in Sydney, Australia and the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, Germany, among many others. Over the years, his exceptional talent has earned him accolades such as "Best New Chef of the Year" in Hamburg, Germany, recognition as a culinary leader for the "Best Fine Dining Restaurant" in Singapore and the "Best Fine Dining French Restaurant" in Bangkok. Chef Beriker is also the author of "The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe Cookbook." Chef Beriker's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for BALEEN Naples, as he combines his rich culinary background with a passion for innovation to elevate the restaurant's award-winning dining experience. Guests can look forward to a fresh take on the vibrant beachfront cuisine that has made BALEEN a beloved destination for food lovers worldwide.
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Grandi Sumeitro Appointed General Manager to Lead Three Bali Hotels
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Grandi Sumeitro Appointed General Manager to Lead Three Bali Hotels
A warm welcome to Grandi Sumeitro, the new General Manager of Shared Services for Harris Hotel Kuta Tuban, Yello Hotel Kuta Beachwalk, and Beachwalk Residence Bali. Grandi’s leadership is deeply rooted in collaboration, connection, and an unwavering love for hospitality. Stepping into Bali’s dynamic hospitality scene for the first time, Grandi brings a fresh perspective that blends professional experience with a heartfelt approach to leadership. “A leader thrives not alone but through listening, understanding, and building solutions together. Success begins with trust, teamwork, and embracing the moments that matter.” -Grandi Sumeitro, General Manager. Bali’s beauty and energy have sparked excitement and a sense of purpose for Grandi. “This is my first time working in Bali, a place I’ve always admired as a world-class destination. Now, I’m here to work with the team to embrace challenges, find opportunities, and celebrate progress. With passion and teamwork, I believe we can achieve great results together,” he added. Hospitality is more than a profession for Grandi — it’s a family legacy. Growing up inspired by a hotelier father and later studying at STP Bandung (ENHAII Bandung), Grandi has progressed from trainee to General Manager. “Hospitality has been part of my life since childhood. I’ve learned that the path to success lies in loving what you do, striving to do your best every day, and believing that ‘tomorrow must be better than today.’ To me, the sky is the limit.” Looking ahead, Grandi envisions a bright future for Harris Hotel Kuta Tuban, Yello Hotel Kuta Beachwalk, and Beachwalk Residence, where growth is measured not just in numbers but in smiles, connections, and memorable experiences. “Success is not just financial — it’s about ensuring guest satisfaction, maintaining product sustainability, and empowering our team to thrive.” In Bali’s ever-evolving hospitality landscape, Grandi sees endless opportunities. “Bali is dynamic, full of life and potential. My team and I will explore creative revenue opportunities while maintaining the personal touches that make each property special. Together, we’ll deliver exceptional products and experiences, always guided by a spirit of innovation and care.” With a strong commitment to the local community, Grandi believes in creating meaningful partnerships celebrating Bali’s rich culture. “The local character, traditions, and resources are treasures that should be embraced, not seen as obstacles. By collaborating with UMKM and showcasing local culture, we can offer guests authentic moments while supporting sustainable growth.” Through warm leadership and a focus on harmony, Grandi aims to inspire the team and guests alike — fostering experiences that reflect the true essence of hospitality. “Hospitality is about people—it’s about creating genuine connections and celebrating life’s simple yet extraordinary moments.” -Grandi Sumeitro, General Manager.
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