The executive shuffle within the CEO ranks of large brand companies continued this week as Radisson Hotel Group announced that Jim Alderman has left the company to pursue other interests.
Alderman—who held a number of roles previously with brand companies such as Wyndham, Starwood and most recently Extended Stay America—took over the reins of the company as CEO during a difficult time in March of 2020 during the outbreak of the pandemic.
Whether or not that was ultimately a factor in his unexpected departure is unknown, but his exit leaves Radisson once again in a state of transition as it looks to find a replacement. The longest tenured CEO during the past decade was Ken Greene, who held the post for some two-and-a-half years before departing in December of 2019 and has since gone on to become the CEO of AHHOA.
The company announced that Tom Bouy, previously chief commercial officer, will serve as interim CEO. Bouy’s background also includes a tenure with Extended Stay America.
“Our plan is to continue to move forward with the vision set forth by our board and executive team to grow the company,” said Tom Buoy, Interim Chief Executive Officer, in a statement. “We have an exceptional internal team of leaders focused on making Radisson Hotel Group Americas better for owners, franchisees, team members, and investors alike, and I am very confident we will continue to grow in 2022 and beyond.”
Meanwhile, earlier this month Larry Cuculic took over as President and CEO of Best Western Hotels & Resorts on Dec. 1, following the retirement of long-time chieftain David Kong. As Senior Vice President and General Counsel for the company, Cuculic had been with the company for the past 12 years. Kong had been at the helm of the company as CEO for some 17 years.
Cuculic will now have a new Board Chairman to work with as the company announced this week announced that its Board of Directors has elected John L. Kelly as Board Chairman for 2022. Kelly—who previously served as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors—brings decades of hospitality experience and 28 years of Best Western ownership to his role as Chairman.
“Jay is a strategic leader who has a deep understanding of our unique organizational structure and the needs of our hoteliers,” stated Cuculic. “He has a proven track record of supporting our members and hoteliers across a variety of legal issues related to international operations, intellectual property matters and business litigation. I have great confidence that Jay will continue to deliver exceptional leadership as he takes on this expanded role.”
Furthermore, the company has appointed Jay Pricher as General Counsel. Pricher joined the organization in 2009 and previously served as Vice President of Legal. In his new role as General Counsel, Pricher will provide counsel, leadership and guidance on all legal issues relating to Best Western Hotels & Resorts’ corporate environment and membership.
Pricher will be responsible for setting and managing strategic direction, and providing guidance on corporate legal issues, to include board and governance matters.
