Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Craig Smith is the Chief Executive Officer of Aimbridge Hospitality, a leading global hospitality company. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, he is a seasoned executive with a strong track record of driving business growth and delivering operational excellence.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Executive Officer of Aimbridge Hospitality, Craig is responsible for setting the strategic vision and leading the company's global operations. He oversees a portfolio of over 1,500 hotels across 25 countries, focusing on driving profitability, enhancing guest experiences, and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Craig held several senior leadership positions at Marriott International, a renowned global hospitality company. He served as the Group President and Managing Director of Marriott's International Division, where he was responsible for leading the company's expansion and operations in markets outside of North America. Before that, he held the roles of President and Managing Director for the Asia Pacific region, as well as President for the Caribbean and Latin America region, contributing to Marriott's strategic growth and market penetration in these key markets.
Academic Background
Craig holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic leadership and business transformation
- Global hospitality operations and portfolio management
- Driving profitability and operational efficiency
- Talent development and organizational culture
- Digital innovation and technology integration
- Mergers, acquisitions, and integration
Professional Impact
During his tenure at Marriott International, Craig led the successful integration of several high-profile acquisitions, including the integration of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which added over 1,300 hotels to Marriott's global portfolio. He also championed the implementation of innovative technology solutions and revenue management strategies, resulting in significant improvements in guest satisfaction and financial performance.
Conclusion
With his extensive expertise in the hospitality industry and a proven track record of driving transformational change, Craig Smith is well-positioned to lead Aimbridge Hospitality in its next phase of growth and development. His strategic vision, operational acumen, and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to the company and the broader industry.
