New Wave of General Managers Transform U.S. Hotels: Hilton, Marriott, and Boutique Brands Drive Innovation
The U.S. hospitality sector is undergoing a dynamic leadership transformation in 2025, as a new generation of hotel general managers steps into key roles at major brands including Hilton, Marriott, and emerging boutique properties. These appointments reflect a renewed focus on operational innovation, personalized guest experiences, and strategic growth at properties across the country.
From Arizona to Florida and Utah to New York, new leaders bring decades of experience in luxury hospitality, operational management, and customer engagement—each uniquely positioned to guide their properties into the future.
Dominic Nez Takes the Helm at Americana Motor Hotel, Flagstaff
At the Americana Motor Hotel in Flagstaff, Arizona, Dominic Nez has been named general manager. With a background in managing luxury and boutique resorts, including properties under Practice Hospitality, Nez is a seasoned leader in revitalizing heritage hotels. His appointment follows a recent repositioning of the historic hotel, signaling a fresh era of innovation and guest-focused service.
Burak Sezgin Appointed GM of Amrit Ocean Resort, Singer Island
Amrit Ocean Resort in Florida has welcomed Burak Sezgin as its new general manager. With over 20 years of international experience, including roles with Sharfi Holdings and multiple five-star resort openings, Sezgin is primed to elevate the wellness-focused beachfront resort. His global perspective aligns with Amrit’s vision of blending luxury and holistic wellness.
Mark O’Brien Leads Arlo Williamsburg in Brooklyn
In New York City, Arlo Williamsburg has appointed Mark O’Brien as general manager. With more than two decades in hospitality, including leadership at the Maritime Hotel and Shinola Hotel, O’Brien brings a hybrid of lifestyle and luxury experience. His leadership is set to further enhance the hotel’s design-forward reputation in one of Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Sidneia Semedo Promoted at Embassy Suites by Hilton Las Vegas
Remington Hospitality has promoted Sidneia Semedo to general manager of Embassy Suites by Hilton in Las Vegas. Rising through the ranks over nearly a decade, Semedo’s promotion under Remington’s “Unleash Potential” GM program highlights the company’s dedication to nurturing internal talent. Her leadership will focus on enhancing guest satisfaction and optimizing operations in the competitive Las Vegas market.
Grand Hyatt Deer Valley Welcomes Nate Hardesty as GM and Area VP
In Park City, Utah, Grand Hyatt Deer Valley has announced Nate Hardesty as both general manager and area vice president. A 23-year Hyatt veteran, Hardesty brings experience from top-tier properties like Thompson Austin and Andaz West Hollywood. His strategic leadership will bolster the luxury resort’s position amid growing demand for upscale mountain getaways.
Amanda Chades Leads Launch of Hilton Garden Inn Cape Canaveral
Hilton Garden Inn Cape Canaveral, scheduled to open in fall 2025, will be led by Amanda Chades. A longtime McKibbon Hospitality team member since 2012, Chades has excelled in operational planning and team development. Her leadership will be key in launching the hotel in one of Florida’s fastest-growing cruise port cities.
Lacey Childress Appointed GM at Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville
Remington Hospitality has also named Lacey Childress as general manager at Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville JTB/Deerwood Park. With over 19 years of experience and a strong background with Hilton properties, Childress exemplifies Remington’s investment in female leadership in hospitality. She’s expected to lead the hotel through an exciting period of growth in business and leisure travel.
Zaw Oo Now GM at Hotel Fera Anaheim, a DoubleTree by Hilton
Spire Hospitality has appointed Zaw Oo as general manager of Hotel Fera Anaheim, DoubleTree by Hilton. Formerly at M Social Hotel New York, Oo’s leadership experience spans luxury properties like The St. Regis Houston and InterContinental Los Angeles. His operational expertise is set to enhance the guest experience at this Southern California property near Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center.
Doak Walker Joins Marriott San Antonio Airport
Hospitality veteran Doak Walker now leads Marriott San Antonio Airport as general manager. With over 30 years of experience in both branded and independent hotels, Walker offers expertise in F&B, sales, and development. His appointment aligns with San Antonio’s growing appeal as a business and leisure hub in South Texas.
Eric Hagman Takes Over Snowpine Lodge, Alta, Utah
Snowpine Lodge in Alta, Utah, has named Eric Hagman as general manager. Known for leading multimillion-dollar renovations and managing mountain resorts in Park City, Hagman brings valuable insight into resort operations and guest service. He’s poised to strengthen the lodge’s status as a premier ski destination in the Mountain West.
Conclusion: New Hospitality Era Driven by Proven Leaders
These strategic general manager appointments across the U.S. are more than leadership changes—they are investments in innovation, resilience, and elevated guest experience. As the hospitality industry continues to rebound in 2025, these leaders will play crucial roles in reshaping the landscape for both travelers and hotel teams alike.
With fresh perspectives, diverse backgrounds, and a deep commitment to hospitality excellence, the new generation of hotel general managers is poised to transform the American hotel experience—one stay at a time.
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