Gregg Hilker Appointed General Manager at Virginia Guesthouse

Published on December 10, 2025

Virginia Guesthouse, located on the Grounds of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, has announced the appointment of Gregg Hilker as its new General Manager. With over 30 years of experience in the hotel operations field, Hilker brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. His appointment comes ahead of the property’s opening in April 2026, a momentous occasion for the hotel and the surrounding community.

A Rich Background in Hotel Operations

Gregg Hilker is a seasoned hospitality professional with an impressive career spanning multiple successful hotel openings and operations. His extensive experience in both the operational and leadership aspects of hotel management has allowed him to significantly impact the properties he has managed. In his most recent role, Hilker oversaw the opening of The Loutrel in Charleston, SC, a property that quickly earned prestigious recognition from well-regarded travel publications, including Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler. This achievement underscores Hilker’s ability to elevate a property to world-class standards from its very inception.

Before his success with The Loutrel, Hilker was also instrumental in the launch of the JB Duke Hotel in Durham, NC. Under his leadership, the hotel earned the AAA Four Diamond Award during its first year of operation, a significant accomplishment for a newly opened property. These experiences have honed his ability to successfully manage high-profile openings and set standards that ensure operational excellence and guest satisfaction from the start.

Leading Virginia Guesthouse Into Its New Chapter

At Virginia Guesthouse, Hilker will be responsible for setting the vision, culture, and operational standards that will define the guest experience. His leadership will be key to ensuring that the property delivers a unique, high-quality experience that reflects the hotel’s commitment to excellence. As General Manager, Hilker will oversee all hotel operations, working closely with the team to maintain high standards and create a seamless experience for guests.

His responsibilities will also include guiding the hotel team as they prepare for the grand opening, ensuring the hotel’s various departments are aligned and ready to deliver the exceptional service expected of a premier property. By focusing on cultivating a strong internal culture and setting operational benchmarks, Hilker aims to shape the hotel’s identity and reputation from the moment it opens its doors.

Shaping the Guest Experience and Operational Standards

A key element of Hilker’s role will be shaping the guest experience at Virginia Guesthouse, an important part of the hotel’s identity. With its location on the University of Virginia’s grounds, the hotel will cater to a mix of academic guests, university visitors, and travelers seeking both comfort and proximity to this historic institution. Hilker’s leadership will ensure that the hotel not only meets the needs of these varied guests but also exceeds their expectations in terms of both service and amenities.

Hilker’s strategic focus on operational excellence will include creating streamlined processes across all departments, ensuring that guests have a seamless and memorable experience from check-in to check-out. His expertise in hotel operations will help establish an environment where efficiency and guest satisfaction go hand-in-hand, helping the hotel stand out in the competitive Charlottesville market.

Emphasizing Teamwork and Community

Hilker’s leadership philosophy is rooted in creating a collaborative and high-performing team. He understands that an engaged and motivated workforce is essential to delivering exceptional guest experiences. As General Manager, Hilker will work to foster a positive team culture, one that emphasizes collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to service excellence.

By focusing on developing local talent and empowering team members to take ownership of their roles, Hilker aims to create a workplace environment that is both dynamic and supportive. This approach will not only benefit employees but will also ensure that guests experience the highest level of service during their stay.

A Vision for Virginia Guesthouse’s Future Success

Hilker’s vision for the future of Virginia Guesthouse extends beyond the hotel’s immediate operations. He is focused on positioning the hotel as a premier destination in Charlottesville, known for both its quality and its connection to the University of Virginia community. His leadership will focus on building lasting relationships with local partners, including meeting planners and corporate clients, as well as ensuring the hotel is a go-to venue for events, conferences, and leisure stays.

Hilker’s approach will include focusing on both the leisure and business markets, ensuring that the hotel offers something for every type of guest. The Virginia Guesthouse is set to be a versatile space, accommodating everything from academic conferences to family vacations, and Hilker’s leadership will be integral to making it a sought-after location for all.

Looking Toward the Hotel’s Grand Opening

As the hotel prepares for its opening in April 2026, Gregg Hilker will continue to lay the groundwork for Virginia Guesthouse’s success. With his vast experience and proven track record in hotel operations, Hilker is well-positioned to lead the hotel through its opening phase and beyond. He will work closely with the leadership team to finalize all operational aspects, ensuring the hotel is ready to offer the highest level of service to its guests from day one.

The Future of Virginia Guesthouse: A New Standard for Hospitality

Hilker’s appointment signals a promising future for Virginia Guesthouse. With a strategic focus on guest experience, operational efficiency, and team culture, Hilker is set to lead the hotel into a new era of success. His leadership will be essential in ensuring that the hotel establishes itself as a premier destination in Charlottesville, meeting the needs of university visitors, corporate clients, and leisure travelers alike.

As Virginia Guesthouse prepares for its opening, it is clear that Gregg Hilker’s vision and leadership will be central to its success. His ability to manage high-profile openings, set operational standards, and foster a positive team culture will help the hotel build a reputation for excellence, ensuring that it becomes a top choice for guests in the region.