
Ashford Trust CEO Kessler is Stepping Down
Ashford Hospitality Trust said Douglas A. Kessler is voluntarily resigning as president and CEO to pursue other professional opportunities. He’ll be succeeded by J. Robison Hays, III, the Dallas-based REIT’s chief strategy officer, effective May 14.
“I would like to thank Douglas for his invaluable leadership and contributions to Ashford Trust during his considerable tenure,” said Ashford Trust chairman Monty J. Bennett. “He has been an extraordinary colleague, and instrumental in the growth of Ashford Trust since its IPO in 2003.”
Bennett added that with Hays’ breadth of experience since joining Ashford Trust in 2005, “we believe the transition will be seamless.” In taking the reins at Ashford Trust, Hays will resign as Ashford Inc.’s co-president and chief strategy officer, and as chief strategy officer of both Ashford Trust and Braemar Hotels & Resorts.
Kessler’s departure follows criticism over Ashford Inc.’s pursuit of $126 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans.
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- ◦People