Davidson Hospitality Group has announced two appointments to its corporate leadership team. Andrew Hougton has joined as senior vice president, luxury operations, to maintain strong working relationships with ownership partners and brands, in addition to directly overseeing Ragdale Hall Spa in the United Kingdom and ensuring property targets are achieved. Scott Harrell, appointed vice president, acquisitions & business development, is responsible for sourcing and executing new management, development and acquisition opportunities.
“As a global hotelier and best-in-class operator, we are delighted to welcome Andrew to the team,” said Steve Contos, EVP, managing director – luxury & international, Davidson Hospitality Group. “In addition to innovating, elevating and driving performance abroad, his vast expertise will also be instrumental as our team refines what constitutes a luxury experience.”
“With a successful track record of executing high-value hotel transactions and a deep understanding of our industry’s complexities, Scott is a tremendous addition to our team,” said Jason Rabidoux, chief investment officer, Davidson Hospitality Group. “We look forward to his contributions in actively sourcing and advancing our pipeline as Davidson continues to grow both domestically and internationally.”
Houghton most recently served as task force managing director and general manager at various resorts in the Davidson portfolio, from Baker’s Cay Resort to Buoy Haus Beach Resort St. Thomas, Autograph Collection and The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa. Previously, he was managing partner at Mainsail Vacation Rentals, where he developed a vacation rental division within the company, utilizing Homes & Villas by Marriott, Airbnb and all distribution channels focused on the luxury and premium segments. Before that, he spent more than 20 years with Marriott International in various executive and leadership roles, including general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong.
Harrell brings more than 15 years of hospitality real estate and investment experience, spanning principal acquisitions, advisory and portfolio strategy. Before Davidson, he served in a similar business development and investment role at PM Hotel Group, focusing on expanding the firm’s third-party management and ownership relationships nationwide. Earlier in his career, Harrell held leadership roles at Hodges Ward Elliott and TPG Hotels & Resorts.