NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE The primary owner of Omni Hotels & Resorts’ parent company has resigned from the board of directors of Gaylord Entertainment Co., citing a potential conflict of interest.
Robert Rowling, owner of TRT Holdings Inc., which controls Omni Hotels, stepped down from his role with Gaylord, which he has held since March 2009.
Yesterday, Omni confirmed speculation that it will develop and operate a convention center hotel in Nashville. Gaylord, which is based in Nashville, also operates a convention center hotel in the city.
“As Gaylord’s largest investor, I believe that this company is well positioned for further growth, and I am confident that they have the right team and strategies in place to deliver value to shareholders, to customers and to employees,” Rowling says. “I have enjoyed my experience on the Gaylord board immensely, and it is clear that the board is focused on the best interest of its shareholders.”
TRT will select a new independent member to fill Rowling’s position as an independent director on Gaylord’s board. Rowling’s resignation took immediate effect.
“On behalf of the board of directors and everyone at Gaylord, I would like to thank Bob for his time and invaluable input during his tenure as director,” says Colin V. Reed, chairman and CEO of Gaylord Entertainment. “It has been a great pleasure to work with him and our company has truly benefited from his deep experience of building and managing a nationally branded, successful hospitality business. I consider Bob a friend and know we will remain in touch after he leaves the board.
“We believe the city made an excellent choice in selecting Omni Hotels to develop and operate the downtown convention center hotel and that this hotel will make Nashville an even more attractive destination,” Reed says.