One month into 2025, and we’ve already seen major change, from Gen Z officially taking over Baby Boomers in the workforce to the ushering in of a new U.S. administration, and the hospitality industry is following suit.
Hotel developments from new-builds to historic renovations are happening everywhere, and as properties continue to upgrade their offerings, they’re also making changes to their leadership teams.
Here are four of the latest hospitality industry professionals to take on general manager roles at key meetings properties in Chicago, Colorado and the Bahamas.
Richie Kavanagh, Vice President and General Manager, The Reef Residences, Atlantis Paradise Island
Atlantis Paradise Island promoted Richie Kavanagh to vice president and general manager of The Reef Residences, one of five hotels at Atlantis.
In his new role, Kavanagh will oversee various aspects of the hotel’s operations, providing strategic leadership and guidance to all areas of the division. He will focus on strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, improve financial performance and foster guest satisfaction and team engagement.
Kavanagh has been with the iconic resort in the Bahamas since November 2021, starting as the assistant general manager for The Cove and The Reef Residences. He has closely overseen and collaborated with various teams across Atlantis Paradise Island including F&B, marketing, finance and more.
“Richie’s proven ability to inspire teams and drive excellence has been instrumental in shaping the guest experience at The Reef Residences,” said Audrey Oswell, president and managing director of Atlantis Paradise Island, in a press release announcing Kavanagh’s promotion. “He is an exceptional leader, strategist and team motivator. His contributions have been invaluable thus far, and we look forward to his continued leadership as we enhance the guest experience and uphold the high standards of service at The Reef Residences.”
Kavanagh brings nearly two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality and tourism industry to his new role, having head leadership positions at major Las Vegas properties including The Venetian, Luxor and MGM Grand.
Kristen Whylly, General Manager, British Colonial Nassau
British Colonial Nassau, located in the heart of Nassau’s downtown, appointed Kristen Whylly as general manager. The historic hotel is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its $50 million renovation and revitalization, and Whylly’s leadership marks a new chapter for the 288-room property.
As native of the Bahamas, Whylly returns to his roots to take the helm of the independently operated boutique hotel. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, he brings a wealth of expertise in exceeding financial targets, elevating guest satisfaction and consistently delivering exceptional service.
“Joining British Colonial Nassau is truly a full-circle moment for me,” Whylly said in a press release. “Growing up in Nassau, I was introduced to the hospitality industry at a young age, and I’ve witnessed the hotel’s evolution over the years. The property has always been a symbol of local tradition and Bahamian culture, and I’m incredibly proud to now be part of its ongoing story. I look forward to welcoming guests and continuing to enhance the resort’s standing as the premier destination in Nassau.”
Whylly’s extensive career has spanned luxury resorts in the U.S. and internationally and includes 15-plus years with Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. He’s honed his leadership skills in executive roles, including resort manager at O‘ahu at Ko Olina, hotel manager in Washington, D.C., and Houston and resort manager at The Ocean Club, Bahamas.
He also served as general manager at Austin Proper Hotel, a MICHELIN Key recipient, and most recently held a position as a hospitality consultant for Red Sea Global International, where he spearheaded the strategy for two hotel openings in Saudi Arabia.
Veronica Moretti, General Manager, Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa
The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley appointed Veronica Moretti as its general manager. Moretti has lived in the Vail Valley for nearly 20 years, where she began her hospitality career at the Vail Marriott working a variety of roles from front desk to housekeeping before moving to director of rooms.
Moretti most recently led a team of more than 100 unit owners when she oversaw operations at The Lodge at Lionshead as part of the Vail Division for East West Hospitality. With strong connections to the Colorado hospitality industry and a dedication to building strong teams, Moretti is poised to position The Westin Riverfront as a top venue in Vail Valley.
Nick OrRico, General Manager, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park
Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park appointed Nick OrRico as its new general manager, bringing over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry and strong track record to the role. OrRico’s appointment brings his career full circle as he returns to the property where he began his hospitality career as a front desk agent.
Most recently, OrRico served as the general manager of Tetherow Resort in Oregon, where his initiatives led the property to be recognized as the No. 1 resort in the Pacific Northwest by the Condé Nast Traveler 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. OrRico has also held leadership positions at properties such as Hotel del Coronado, The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui and The Plaza Hotel.
Under OrRico’s leadership, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park said it will focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening community connections and redefining modern luxury while celebrating its storied heritage.
“Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park has always been a cornerstone of this incredible city,” OrRico said in a press release. “I am honored to return to this iconic property at such a pivotal time, working to elevate our service, build meaningful connections and reintroduce our hotel as the ultimate destination where Chicago’s stories come to life.”
Read more recent moves and appointments in the meetings industry.
