Kerry Ranson Recognized with 2024 Kemmons Wilson Service Award at IHG Conference

Kerry Ranson Recognized with 2024 Kemmons Wilson Service Award

On December 11, 2024, the IHG Owners Association awarded its esteemed 2024 Kemmons Wilson Service Award to Kerry Ranson, a respected figure in the hospitality industry and a former chair of the Association's Global Board of Directors. The award ceremony took place during the Member Meeting Networking Reception at the 2024 IHG Americas Investors Leadership Conference held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Honoring Exceptional Leadership

This annual award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and leadership within the hospitality sector, reflecting the values established by Holiday Inn founder Kemmons Wilson. Ranson, who played a vital role at IHG, expressed immense pride in receiving the honor, stating how humbling it is to be recognized by his peers and mentors.

Ranson's illustrious career spans several decades, showcasing a pattern of significant contributions to the industry. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of New Orleans and began his journey at Mirage Hotels, aiding in the launch of the Beau Rivage Resort in Biloxi, Mississippi. From there, he aligned his career with Wilson Hotel Management Company before serving a pivotal role as area director for IHG for three years.

A Legacy of Achievement

In 2002, he co-founded HP Hotels as President and CEO, propelling the company into the spotlight by earning a position on Hotel Business's Top 100 Management Companies list. His leadership continued to evolve as he joined Expotel Hospitality and returned to HP Hotels, where he served as CEO. Under his guidance from 2012 to 2022, HP Hotels gained recognition as a Top 50 management company.

Recently, Ranson played a crucial role in the acquisition of HP Hotels by Raines Co., which effectively doubled its portfolio and enhanced its footprint across the Southeastern U.S. In 2024, they initiated a joint venture with Atlantic Hotel Group, expanding their reach into Texas, leading to ownership, management, or development of over 65 hotels.

A Commitment Beyond Tenure

As the 2015 Chair of the IHG Owners Association Board, Ranson focused on strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the cooperative relationship between the Association and IHG. His involvement did not end with his tenure; he continued to serve as a Past Chair representative during the pandemic, demonstrating his unwavering commitment by participating in various committees, including the Hotel Indigo Committee.

John Muehlbauer, the CEO of the IHG Owners Association, underscored Ranson's proactive role, appreciating his relentless dedication to building collaboration which has been vital for advancing the mission of the Association. Muehlbauer stated, “Kerry's commitment has continually benefited our global owner community,” emphasizing the significance of Ranson's contributions.

Personal Life

Outside of his professional accolades, Kerry Ranson resides in Metairie, Louisiana, with his wife, Elizabeth, and their three triplet daughters, Ava, Sydney, and Olivia. Ranson's recognition serves not only as a personal achievement but as an inspiration for many in the hospitality realm.

The IHG Owners Association, founded in 1955 by Kemmons Wilson, remains the only association of its kind in the hotel industry, advocating for over 5,000 IHG property owners globally. The Association's mission includes enhancing the returns on investments for its members by voicing their interests to IHG leadership on various operational standards and initiatives affecting the hospitality sector. The portfolio of the IHG family includes renowned brands such as InterContinental, Holiday Inn, and Kimpton Hotels, among many others.

For more information about the IHG Owners Association, you can visit their website at www.owners.org.