Hotel Equities adds to operations, finance, marketing teams

Hospitality operator and developer Hotel Equities has made a series of key executive appointments across its operations, finance and marketing teams. 

“These appointments reflect our focus on aligning top-tier leadership talent with our strategic priorities,” Ben Rafter, chief executive officer of Hotel Equities. “Each of these leaders brings a proven track record in their respective disciplines. Together, they will play a critical role in shaping our unified platform, enhancing the experience for every associate and guest.”

The following executives have recently stepped into new leadership roles at Hotel Equities:

Taylor Hall – VP of operations

Hall oversees operations for a portfolio of properties in the Midwest U.S.. She most recently was vice president of operations at Aperture Hotels, where she managed a multibranded portfolio of Marriott, Hilton and IHG properties. 

Mike Hrusovsky – VP of operations

Hrusovsky now leads operational strategy and performance for a multibrand portfolio. With more than 37 years in hospitality leadership, he has directed operations for high-profile resorts and hotels in markets including Marco Island, San Antonio and throughout Michigan. Before joining HE, he held senior operational roles at Hospitality Specialists, overseeing the performance of a portfolio of diverse hotels and played a key role in budgeting and strategic growth initiatives.

Martin Larralde – VP of finance, Caribbean and Latin America

Larralde oversees all financial operations for HE’s growing CALA region, partnering closely with regional ownership groups to ensure financial performance and long-term value creation. He previously was regional director of finance for Oak View Group in Mexico. Earlier in his career, Larralde spent nine years with Hilton, holding senior finance roles that included oversight of multicountry operations and pre-opening financial planning for flagship properties. 

Mike Sutter – VP of operations

Sutter now leads operations for a portfolio of lifestyle and full-service hotels within HE. Bringing more than 25 years of hospitality experience, he has held leadership roles with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Marriott International and Solis Hotels & Resorts. In his new role, Sutter will focus on aligning operational strategies with HE’s growth objectives.

Dana Wendell – VP of marketing, strategic accounts

Wendell leads marketing strategy for HE’s strategic-accounts portfolio. She brings more than 20 years of experience having worked with Miraval Resorts, Civana Wellness Resort & Spa, Omni Hotels & Resorts and Teneo Hospitality Group.