Ashford Inc. Strengthens Executive Team with New Appointments

In a significant move to bolster its executive team, Ashford Inc. has appointed Hector Sanchez as the new President and Eric Batis as Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. This leadership change aims to enhance the firm’s operational efficiency and promote long-term growth within the organization. Monty J. Bennett will continue his role as Chairman and CEO, overseeing the overall direction of the company.

Leadership Roles and Responsibilities

Sanchez is stepping into his new position after a successful tenure as CEO of Ashford's subsidiary, Premier. His focus will be on guiding the company towards higher coordination and alignment across all business units, ensuring that performance aligns with corporate objectives. He will have the critical task of ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently, business units act cohesively, and strategic initiatives receive the necessary oversight.

Batis, who previously was Executive Vice President of Operations, will now oversee the day-to-day operational execution within Ashford. His role is vital in managing operational performance, streamlining processes, and ensuring that all units meet their financial and operational benchmarks. By optimizing these operations, Batis aims to facilitate better execution and growth across the organization.

Quotes from Leadership

In regards to the new appointments, Monty J. Bennett expressed his confidence, stating, "I’m very pleased to announce Hector’s appointment as president and Eric’s promotion to COO. Their combined experience will sharpen our focus and position Ashford for stronger performance and continued expansion in the years ahead."

Hector Sanchez shared his enthusiasm for the role, saying, "I am honored to step into the role of president of Ashford Inc. I look forward to working with our talented teams to strengthen our asset management platform and drive growth across our real estate businesses for both our advised REITs and third-party clients."

Eric Batis echoed similar sentiments, indicating his readiness to enhance the company’s next chapter of growth, saying, "By refining our acquisition strategy and bolstering operational oversight, we will position the company for sustained performance particularly in the hospitality space."

A Glimpse into Their Backgrounds

Sanchez’s previous roles have equipped him well for his new position. During his leadership at Premier amidst the pandemic, he successfully restructured the organization, initiating over 150 new contracts in third-party services and expanding significantly into the multi-family and student housing sectors. His experience in the energy sector with companies like NOV and Rubicon Oilfield International further bolsters his expertise in management and strategic development.

Eric Batis brings a wealth of knowledge from his over 15 years in real estate and investment experience. Since joining Ashford in 2013, he has played a key role in providing oversight for acquisitions and guiding the firm's strategic directions. Before joining Ashford, his experience at Houlihan Lokey as a vice president in valuation and advisory services provided him with a strong foundation in real estate analytics.

Conclusion

Ashford Inc. is committed to creating a robust leadership structure that can navigate the complexities of the real estate and hospitality sectors. With the appointment of Sanchez and Batis, the company is positioned to embark on an exciting journey towards growth and operational excellence. Both leaders are eager to leverage their extensive experience to achieve sustained performance and capitalize on the significant growth opportunities that lie ahead in a dynamic market environment.