FOUNDER, CHAIRMAN, CEO, MONTAGE INTERNATIONAL
WHY: Luxe hotel expert that got his start as doorman at a Marriott property; founded Montage in 2002 with flagship Laguna Beach property opening following year. Properties in portfolio, are valued at over $3B.
RECENT: Montage and sister company Pendry Hotels—run by son, Michael—have several projects in the works in multiple states, with plans to double portfolio in next few years. Bought art deco tower in Chicago in October, will convert to a Pendry. 2019 Excellence in Entrepreneurship honoree.
QUOTABLE: “My opinion was that traditional luxury was going out of vogue. It was too scripted, too stuffy, and was in need of a more gracious and humble approach that would maintain craftsmanship and attention to detail without the pretentiousness.”
