Hotel Equities (HE), a best-in-class hospitality operator and developer, today announces a series of key executive appointments across its operations, finance, and marketing teams. These leadership placements add proven expertise in areas critical to its next phase, from elevating portfolio performance and strengthening international financial operations to enhancing marketing impact for owners and brand partners. Together, these hires position HE for sustained success across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
“These appointments reflect our focus on aligning top-tier leadership talent with our strategic priorities,” said Ben Rafter, Chief Executive Officer of Hotel Equities. “Each of these leaders brings a proven track record in their respective disciplines. Together, they will play a critical role in shaping our unified platform, enhancing the experience for every associate and guest.”
The following executives have recently stepped into new leadership roles at Hotel Equities:
Taylor Hall – Vice President of Operations
Hall oversees operations for a portfolio of properties in the Midwest U.S.. She most recently served as Vice President of Operations at Aperture Hotels, where she managed a multi-branded portfolio of Marriott, Hilton, and IHG properties. In that role, she consistently drove RevPAR growth, improved GOP margins, optimized labor efficiency, and elevated guest and associate satisfaction across her portfolio. With a strong background in rooms and food & beverage operations and strategic revenue management, Hall has successfully guided properties through brand transitions and operational improvements.
Mike Hrusovsky – Vice President of Operations
Hrusovsky now leads operational strategy and performance for a multi-brand portfolio. With more than 37 years in hospitality leadership, he has directed operations for high-profile resorts and hotels in markets including Marco Island, San Antonio, and throughout Michigan. Hrusovsky is recognized for successfully navigating brand conversions and complex renovations while consistently delivering improvements in guest satisfaction. Prior to joining HE, he held senior operational roles at Hospitality Specialists, Inc., overseeing the performance of a portfolio of diverse hotels and played a key role in budgeting and strategic growth initiatives, earning a reputation for his ability to build strong teams and deliver sustainable results.
Martin Larralde – Vice President of Finance, Caribbean and Latin America (CALA)
Larralde oversees all financial operations for HE’s growing CALA region, partnering closely with regional ownership groups to ensure financial performance and long-term value creation. He previously served as Regional Director of Finance for Oak View Group in Mexico, where he implemented robust financial controls and enhanced reporting processes for major sports and entertainment venues. Earlier in his career, Larralde spent nine years with Hilton Worldwide, holding senior finance roles that included oversight of multi-country operations and pre-opening financial planning for flagship properties. A certified public accountant, he brings deep expertise in strategic compliance and capital planning.
Mike Sutter – Vice President of Operations
Sutter now leads operations for a portfolio of lifestyle and full-service hotels within HE. Bringing more than 25 years of hospitality experience, he has held leadership roles with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Marriott International, and Solis Hotels & Resorts. Sutter has successfully guided high-performing teams through multiple hotel openings and ownership transitions, earning a well-deserved reputation for delivering strong financial performance while consistently enhancing guest satisfaction. His expertise spans strategic planning and operational execution across lifestyle and luxury segments. In his new role, Sutter will focus on aligning operational strategies with HE’s growth objectives and ensuring performance excellence across his portfolio.
Dana Wendell – Vice President of Marketing, Strategic Accounts
Wendell leads marketing strategy for HE’s strategic accounts portfolio, focusing on initiatives that strengthen brand positioning and elevate client relationships. She brings more than 20 years of experience shaping integrated marketing strategies for hospitality, wellness, residential, publishing, and retail brands. Wendell has worked with organizations including Miraval Resorts, Civana Wellness Resort & Spa, Omni Hotels & Resorts, and Teneo Hospitality Group, leading creative teams and executing campaigns that have driven double-digit market share growth.
These appointments demonstrate HE’s commitment to building a leadership team equipped to guide the company’s next chapter: one focused on strategic growth, operational excellence, and delivering exceptional value for owners, associates, and guests. For more information about Hotel Equities and its leadership, visit www.hotelequities.com/meet-our-team.htm.
