Highgate named Pete Sams president, effective July 7, the New York-based hotel management, investment and development firm announced Monday.
In the newly created role, Sams is tasked with optimizing business performance across Highgate's 500-property portfolio to drive financial results for owners, create memorable experiences for guests and expand opportunities for associates, according to the firm.
In his role, Sams will work closely with Highgate’s principals, including CEO Arash Azarbarzin, and discipline leaders, per the company.
The 30-year industry veteran joins Highgate from Peregrine Hospitality, formerly KSL Resorts, where he was chief operating officer. Prior to Peregine, Sams held the same role at Davidson Hospitality Group.
Also this week, Davidson Hospitality appointed Jason Reader chief operating officer.
According to Highgate, Sams’ appointment is “a strategic move” in line with its mission to build “a world-class team committed to creating lasting value and leading outcomes for stakeholders.”
“Pete brings an extraordinary track record of unlocking performance, energizing teams, and delivering sustained results across complex portfolios,” Mahmood Khimji, Highgate’s co-chairman and managing principal, said in a statement, adding that Sams’ expertise “will be a catalyst to sharpen our strategic focus, accelerate growth, and elevate the value we deliver to our owners and partners around the world.”
Prior to joining Davidson Hospitality, Sams held executive roles at Interstate Hotels & Resorts and White Lodging Services and spent nearly two decades at Omni Hotels. He is also a two-term representative on the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s board of directors.
Highgate has expanded its luxury lifestyle portfolio in recent years to capitalize on interest in the growing hotel segment.
