First Hospitality has announced the appointment of Kathleen Hollis as Chief Growth Officer, a strategic move that strengthens the company’s executive leadership team as it continues to expand its national presence in hotel management and development.
In her new role, Hollis will lead business development efforts, pursue third-party hotel management contracts, and drive portfolio expansion across U.S. markets. She will focus on building stronger partnerships with ownership groups and global brand partners while identifying new target markets and evaluating acquisitions and developments aligned with First Hospitality’s long-term growth plans. She will also represent the company at major hospitality industry conferences and investment forums, reinforcing First Hospitality’s reputation as a trusted partner for investors and owners.
“Kathleen’s seasoned expertise in the lifestyle and full-service sectors directly aligns with First Hospitality’s growth strategy,” said David Duncan, president and CEO of First Hospitality. “With her strong relationships across financial and investment firms and her deep understanding of emerging markets, Kathleen is well-positioned to help us expand across the U.S. Her leadership will be key as we continue to diversify our portfolio and deliver exceptional results for owners.”
Hollis brings an impressive track record to the role. She joins from Evolution Hospitality, the lifestyle division of Aimbridge Hospitality, where she held several leadership positions since 2014. Most recently, as Senior Vice President of Business Development, she played a pivotal role in expanding the portfolio from 27 to 90 hotels. Earlier in her career, she gained valuable investment and real estate strategy expertise as a financial analyst at Wells Fargo Bank.
A graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Management with a minor in real estate, Hollis combines academic rigor with deep industry experience. She divides her time between California and Rhode Island, where she lives with her husband and two young sons.
Her appointment underscores First Hospitality’s commitment to accelerating its growth across the lifestyle and full-service sectors while reinforcing its focus on delivering long-term value for owners, partners, and investors nationwide.
