ROB SMITH WILL become president and CEO of Stonebridge Cos. in July. He succeeds Navin Dimond, who founded the Denver-based hotel management company in 1991 and will now serve as chairman.
In his new role, Smith will lead the development and execution of the organization's long-term strategies and report to the board of directors, Stonebridge said in a statement.
“I am proud of the success our team has achieved as we’ve built the distinct Stonebridge brand over more than 30 years—and am confident that the best is yet to come,” said Dimond. “Rob epitomizes our culture of leveraging innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit to enhance value for our owners, investors and other stakeholders. His extensive, successful track record makes him the ideal person to advance our growth strategy. I look forward to working closely with Rob to take Stonebridge to the next level of growth.”
With nearly 30 years in hospitality, Smith has held positions at several organizations, the statement said. Most recently, he was division president at Aimbridge Hospitality, where he helped grow their luxury and resort portfolio over 12 years. Prior to that, he spent two decades in the Caribbean, including as president and CEO of the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association. His experience also includes roles as general manager of several U.S. and Caribbean resorts.
“I am thrilled to lead the immensely talented Stonebridge team during this exciting time of growth and opportunity in our industry,” said Smith. “I look forward to working with Navin and the Stonebridge team to continue the company’s long history of innovation, operational excellence, and consistent results as we strive to be the leader in hospitality among guests, team members and clients.”
Smith currently serves on the AHLA board of directors, the Marriott Rooms Advisory Board, and the Westin Brand Advisory Board.
Stonebridge recently acquired Real Hospitality Group LLC, based in Ocean City, Maryland, led by president and CEO Ben Seidel, expanding its portfolio to over 160 properties with 24,000 rooms across 20 states.
Opened in 2024, the Signia by Hilton Atlanta near Mercedes Benz Stadium, Georgia World Congress Center and State Farm Arena, will begin hosting the Hunter Hotel Conference next year.
Speaking on a panel at the Hunter Hotel Conference are, from left, Vision Hospitality President and CEO Mitch Patel; Greg Friedman, managing principal and CEO of Peachtree Group; and Robert Webster, vice chairman at CBRE.
Rep. Aaron Bean delivers keynote addressPhoto credit: AAHOA