Hotel Manager

Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas and the Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort expand leadership team across hotel, culinary and beverage programs. The resorts, operated by Davidson Resorts, name Carlos Macias as general manager of The Westin St. Thomas, Joan Hernández as executive chef of Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas and Mea Leech as complex beverage director overseeing both resorts. Summary. Davidson Resorts appoints Carlos Macias as general manager of The Westin St. Thomas, Joan Hernández as executive chef of Buoy Haus Beach Resort and Mea Leech as beverage director amid recent enhancements. Enhancements include the new Salt Shack Caribbean dining venue and a beachfront room category with private lounge chairs and a walkout terrace. ST.THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (June 17, 2026) - Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas and The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort, neighboring resorts overlooking Frenchman's Reef and operated by Davidson Resorts, are pleased to announce the appointment of Carlos Macias as general manager of The Westin St. Thomas, Joan Hernández as executive chef of Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas and Mea Leech as complex beverage director overseeing both resorts. These appointments follow a series of recent complex-wide enhancements, including the debut of Salt Shack, a new dining concept nestled between Buoy Haus and The Westin St. Thomas offering authentic Caribbean cuisine, as well as the introduction of a new beachfront room category at Buoy Haus featuring elevated amenities such as a complimentary top-shelf in-room bar, private beachfront lounge chairs and a walkout terrace. "I am honored to be joining The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort at such an exciting time," says Carlos Macias, general manager of The Westin St. Thomas. "Over the years, our team has set the standard for delivering an authentic U.S. Virgin Islands experience paired with elevated accommodations and exceptional service. I look forward to building on this legacy and ensuring every moment of the guest experience celebrates the rich culture and beauty of St. Thomas." Macias brings a dynamic, team-first approach to his role as general manager, shaped by extensive experience across operations, culinary and leadership. Originally from Guatemala, Macias began his journey in the industry at a young age, supporting his family's restaurants across Charlotte, North Carolina, and Quito, Ecuador. He launched his career with Omni Hotels & Resorts, starting as a barback and in-room dining server at Omni Charlotte before rising through leadership roles at large-scale and luxury properties, including Omni Orlando, The Ballantyne and Lansdowne Resort in Northern Virginia. He also played a role in the opening of The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor and completed Omni's rigorous management training programs. Most recently, Macias served as hotel general manager at Nobu Hotel Miami Beach and interim general manager at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples, Florida, earning multiple industry accolades along the way. At The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort, he brings a collaborative philosophy, a focus on operational excellence and a passion for delivering elevated guest experiences while deepening the resort's connection to the local community. Joining Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas as executive chef, Joan Hernández oversaw the recent opening of Salt Shack, a new toes-in-the-sand dining concept available to locals, visitors and guests of Buoy Haus and The Westin St. Thomas. Inspired by the bold flavors and traditions of Caribbean cuisine, the beachfront restaurant offers a menu of fresh seafood and proteins prepared over an open flame, including whole local fish, whole Caribbean lobster and smoked jerk chicken, along with inventive cocktails using locally sourced ingredients like the "One Eye Open" featuring Don Q Cristal Rum, Wray & Nephew Rum, PAMA, soursop juice, lime, coconut cream and bitters. Throughout the week, guests can enjoy Caribbean-inspired cuisine and refreshing cocktails alongside live entertainment, including karaoke nights, fire dancers and live music from local musicians. Prior to joining Buoy Haus, Hernández honed his skills in prestigious resorts, including Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and St. Regis Bahia Beach, where he served a variety of roles from sous chef to executive sous chef. Originally from Puerto Rico, Hernández developed a passion for cooking at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, and today is known for a contemporary, minimalist cooking style that highlights local ingredients while incorporating traditional French techniques. In his role as executive chef, Hernández also oversees Sugarfin, Buoy Haus' all-day Caribbean-Asian fusion dining concept. Complementing the resorts' culinary program, Mea Leech steps in as complex beverage director of Buoy Haus and The Westin St. Thomas, bringing nearly two decades of experience to her role. Throughout her career, Leech has worked alongside pioneers of the hospitality industry, including Charles Joly of The Drawing Room and Ian Schrager of PUBLIC Chicago, curated noteworthy cocktail programs at hotels across the globe, and consulted on boutique openings in Dubai, Singapore and Cambodia. At The Westin St. Thomas and Buoy Haus, she crafts inventive cocktail and non-alcoholic menus featuring fresh, locally sourced Caribbean ingredients, with signature creations like the "Tropical Revival" - a playful twist on a classic Corpse Reviver - reflecting her commitment to flavor, presentation and barefoot luxury. Buoy Haus and The Westin St. Thomas are located just six miles from STT airport, offering a convenient Caribbean escape thanks to no passport requirement for U.S. citizens and direct flights from major cities including New Jersey, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, New York City and Washington, D.C. For more information or to book a reservation, visit Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas or The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort. Media Contact ABOUT BUOY HAUS BEACH RESORT ST. THOMAS, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION Nestled on the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Thomas, Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas, Autograph Collection is a boutique retreat that seamlessly blends barefoot luxury with a world-class resort experience. The resort features 94 sophisticated guest rooms and suites with contemporary furnishings and soothing color palettes, including a collection of beachfront rooms with private beach access and dedicated beach butlers. Guests can enjoy diverse onsite dining along with full access to restaurants and amenities at the neighboring Westin St. Thomas, including rejuvenating treatments at Heavenly Spa by Westin. A range of experiential touchpoints speak to the island's Caribbean culture, such as a weekly rum and chocolate tasting in the lobby, while a private dock allows guests to seamlessly depart on snorkeling excursions, enjoy sunset sails aboard the hotel's exclusive Flying Frenchman catamaran, embark on night kayaking adventures and beyond. From intimate gatherings to celebratory events, Buoy Haus offers over 18,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor space along with attentive planning services and premium catering. The resort recently introduced a new dining concept, Salt Shack, featuring locally inspired cuisine, creative cocktails, and daily curated entertainment set against a stunning backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Buoy Haus Beach Resort is located just six miles from STT airport, offering a convenient Caribbean escape thanks to no passport requirement for U.S. citizens and direct flights from major cities including Philadelphia, New Jersey, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, New York City and Washington, D.C. For more information or to book a reservation, please visit the website. ABOUT THE WESTIN ST. THOMAS BEACH RESORT & SPA Overlooking the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of U.S. Virgin Island St. Thomas, The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa offers a rejuvenating island escape that draws inspiration from the surrounding Caribbean landscape. The hotel's 392 elevated guest rooms reflect vibrant coral reefs with brilliant blues, sun-bleached whites, natural textiles, and furnishings that mirror the organic forms of tidal pools and coral formations. An epicurean escape, the resort features five onsite dining concepts with diverse cuisine, along with access to three restaurants at the neighboring Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas. On-site amenities include The Heavenly Spa by Westin, three ocean view pools with private cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and robust programming that caters to all ages, like the Westin FAMILY Kids Club, access to ocean adventures via a private dock, sunset sails aboard the hotel's onsite catamaran and more. For weddings, corporate retreats and memorable events, The Westin St. Thomas offers more than 85,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor space, including the largest event space in the U.S. Virgin Islands and largest ballroom on St. Thomas, alongside attentive planning services, premium catering and sweeping ocean views. The Westin St. Thomas is located just six miles from STT airport, offering a convenient Caribbean escape thanks to no passport requirement for U.S. citizens and direct flights from major cities including New Jersey, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, New York City and Washington, D.C. For more information or to book a reservation, please visit the website.

Davidson Hospitality Group adds Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection, to its portfolio. May 5, 2026 ATLANTA, Georgia - Davidson Hospitality Group announced that it has been selected by Hersha Hotels & Resorts to manage Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection, a 357-room oceanfront resort in Miami Beach, Florida. The property, originally opened in 1940 and designed by renowned architect Roy F. France, includes four food & beverage venues; two pools, a fitness center, and more than 6,200 square feet of indoor-outdoor event space. Under Davidson management, the property will undergo a phased renovation in late 2026 and 2027, with planned upgrades to public spaces and guestrooms to enhance the overall experience. "It's an honor to welcome the iconic Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club to our growing Davidson family," said Jason Reader, chief operating officer, Davidson Hospitality Group. "We are excited to leverage the property's unique and rich Miami Beach history to deliver standout guest experiences and look forward to creating exceptional value for our ownership partners as we steward a strategic transformation." Comprised of two towers, the original 14-story tower at the northern end and a second eight-story addition built in 1956, Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club combines the characteristics of the signature Miami Beach architectural styles, Art Deco and Streamline Moderne. The resort has a preserved aesthetic, with original terrazzo floors in the lobby, greenery, and a wraparound mezzanine overlooking the check-in and lounge area.

Davidson Hospitality Group appoints Scott Harrell as Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development. Published on March 14, 2026 Davidson Hospitality Group has announced the appointment of Scott Harrell as the new Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality real estate and investment, Harrell is expected to bring his expertise to drive the company's future growth. His deep knowledge of principal acquisitions, advisory services, and portfolio strategy positions him as a key figure in expanding Davidson's footprint across the United States. A Wealth of Experience in Hospitality Real Estate Scott Harrell joins Davidson Hospitality Group after a distinguished career in the hospitality investment sector. Prior to this role, Harrell held a similar position at PM Hotel Group, where he focused on expanding the company's third-party management and ownership relationships nationwide. His wealth of experience spans numerous leadership roles, most notably at Hodges Ward Elliott and TPG Hotels & Resorts. Over the course of his career, Harrell has successfully executed billions of dollars in hotel transactions across the U.S., making him well-equipped to guide Davidson's growth strategy. His diverse background in hotel acquisitions and investment will enable him to identify new opportunities and help maximize the company's growth potential. As a seasoned expert in the field, Harrell will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to Davidson, enhancing the company's ability to expand its market presence and solidify its position as a leading hospitality management firm. Davidson's Commitment to Expanding Its Portfolio Davidson Hospitality Group is a full-service hospitality management company with a portfolio comprising 61 existing hotels and resorts, over 150 restaurants, bars, and lounges, and nearly 1.5 million square feet of meeting space across the U.S. The company's operations are built on a trusted partnership with major hotel brands such as Hilton, Hyatt, Kimpton, Marriott, and Margaritaville. Davidson's entrepreneurial management style has made it a preferred operator for hotel owners looking to maximize the performance of their assets. With Scott Harrell's appointment, Davidson is poised to accelerate its growth and strengthen its presence in the hospitality sector. Harrell's extensive expertise in acquisitions and business development is expected to help identify new hotel and resort properties to add to the company's portfolio, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier hospitality operator. Strategic Vision for Future Expansion Discover more B2B Media Platform Travel sized toiletries Hotel booking services Travel guides Event ticketing services Luggage tracking devices Harrell's role at Davidson will involve a focus on expanding the company's third-party management and ownership relationships, especially in the realm of hotel acquisitions. His in-depth understanding of the dynamics of the hospitality industry, coupled with his strong background in investment strategy, will play a crucial role in shaping the company's future. Harrell's leadership will be vital in ensuring that Davidson Hospitality Group remains competitive and adaptable in a rapidly changing market. As Davidson continues to expand its footprint in the hospitality sector, Harrell's strategic insight will guide the company through the complexities of the market, ensuring it is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends and opportunities. The company is also expected to benefit from Harrell's network of industry relationships, which will be invaluable as Davidson looks to form new partnerships and acquire key properties across the U.S. The Growing Role of Hospitality Investment With the hospitality industry recovering from recent global challenges, investment in real estate and hospitality assets has become an even more crucial focus for many companies. Davidson Hospitality Group's commitment to growing its portfolio and expanding its operations is reflective of the increasing demand for well-managed hotel properties. Under Harrell's leadership, the company is likely to increase its emphasis on identifying high-potential properties that align with its growth strategy. Davidson's approach to acquisitions has always been strategic, with a focus on both high-quality properties and long-term value creation. Harrell's role will allow the company to continue identifying and securing assets that not only enhance its portfolio but also create value for its partners and investors. Davidson's Leadership in Hospitality Management Davidson's position in the hospitality industry is strengthened by its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. The company's flexible and entrepreneurial management style allows it to navigate the complexities of hotel operations with a keen focus on maximizing profitability for owners and stakeholders. As Davidson moves forward, Harrell's strategic leadership will ensure the company remains at the forefront of the hospitality sector. By leveraging its strong portfolio, strategic acquisitions, and long-standing relationships with major hotel brands, Davidson Hospitality Group continues to set itself apart as a leading player in the industry. Harrell's role as Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development will be key to driving the company's next phase of growth and positioning it for continued success in a highly competitive market. Conclusion The appointment of Scott Harrell as Vice President of Acquisitions & Business Development at Davidson Hospitality Group is an exciting development for the company. With over 15 years of expertise in hospitality real estate and investment, Harrell is well-equipped to lead the company's growth efforts. As Davidson continues to expand its portfolio and strengthen its position in the hospitality market, Harrell's strategic leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the company's future. Davidson Hospitality Group's ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional value for its partners, investors, and guests makes it a standout player in the hospitality industry. With Harrell at the helm of acquisitions and business development, Davidson is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory and maintain its reputation as a trusted and innovative leader in the field.