Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Davidson Hospitality Group, renowned for its excellence in hospitality management, is pleased to announce the promotion of key leaders within the company, as part of its strategic initiative for sustained growth. Effective January 1, 2025, Steve Margol, currently the Chief Investment Officer at Davidson, will step into the role of Executive Chairman. This transition coincides with John Belden, the current Executive Chairman and former CEO, moving to the position of Chairman Emeritus at the end of 2024.
“It’s always special when we can announce the career progression of our team members,” said Thom Geshay, CEO & President. “Supporting our growth by promoting team members from within is the life blood of our company. A critical factor in our industry leading team member engagement and low turnover is our team-first philosophy of not just being a place to work, but a company where you can advance your career. It’s the key ingredient to our culture.”
In his forthcoming role, Margol will spearhead Davidson’s strategic growth initiatives, closely collaborating with the company’s executive leadership and stakeholders. He will continue to oversee and direct the company’s strategy and acquisition efforts, with Jason Rabidoux now managing the day-to-day operations of the team.
Jason Rabidoux, formerly the Senior Vice President within the Acquisitions and Business Development team, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Acquisitions and Business Development. Rabidoux has been instrumental in expanding Davidson’s portfolio since joining the company in 2013, adding over 50 hotels and resorts and engaging in more than $2 billion in real estate transactions.
Josie Strang, who started at Davidson in 2018 as a financial analyst, has been elevated to Vice President. Strang has been pivotal in various acquisitions and transitions, and in her new role, she will oversee new management and acquisition ventures, and mentor junior team members.
Paul Eckert, previously Senior Vice President of Operations, has advanced to Executive Vice President of Operations. Since joining Davidson over three years ago, Eckert has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing complex assets and improving operational outcomes.
Lucas Laidlaw, previously Regional Director of Operations, has been promoted to Regional Vice President of Operations, under Eckert’s supervision. Laidlaw has made significant contributions to operational excellence since joining the team in 2021 and will now oversee his portfolio’s performance, as well as join the board of Curator Hotels & Resorts.
Thomas Fraher, formerly Area Vice President of Operations for Davidson Resorts in Florida, has been appointed Regional Vice President of Operations for the Eastern United States. Fraher will guide multiple high-profile resorts in his new capacity.
These promotions reflect Davidson’s commitment to nurturing talent and strategic foresight, underscoring its status as both a leader in the hospitality industry and a top employer.
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
