Hilton has announced the expansion of its Canadian development team with the appointment of Mark Kochhar as director, franchise development, Canada. Building on the momentum of the company’s 200th hotel opening in Canada milestone, Kochhar will oversee development efforts across Western Canada, working closely with owners and partners to advance new hotel projects and support the continued expansion of Hilton’s portfolio in the region.
“Over the past decade, Hilton has nearly doubled its footprint in Canada, introducing first‑in‑market brands – culminating in the opening of our 200th hotel in the country,” said Matt Wehling, SVP, development, U.S. and Canada, Hilton. “Strengthening our development team with additional in‑market expertise allows us to continue that growth while supporting our owners at every stage of development. Mark brings deep market knowledge, trusted owner relationships, and a proven track record within Hilton, making him a strong addition to our Canadian development team.”
Kochhar holds more than 13 years of experience with Hilton and three decades in the hospitality industry. During his tenure with the company, he has developed expertise across hotel development, owner relations and brand management and performance, with a strong focus on long‑term partnerships and strategic growth. Before his current role, Kochhar served as director, owner relations, Canada for Hilton. Before joining Hilton’s corporate team, Kochhar served as general manager of the former Hilton Garden Inn Toronto City Centre.
Kochhar is actively engaged in the Canadian hospitality industry and serves on the Hotel Association of Canada Board of Directors (Brand Category), contributing to national-level industry advocacy.
Canada remains an important growth market for Hilton, with more than 200 hotels and more than 100 properties in various stages of development. The expanded structure reinforces Hilton’s multi-brand strategy as demand grows across urban and secondary markets, particularly within the lifestyle, extended-stay and focused‑service categories.