IHG Selects Jim Abrahamson as New President, Americas Region

JimAbrahamson

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC has announced that Jim Abrahamson will serve as president of its Americas region effective January 5, 2009. Jim takes over from Richard Solomons, interim president of the Americas and finance director for the group, who managed the region since Steve Porter had to step down due to ill health in July before passing away. Abrahamson will report to Andrew Cosslett, CEO, and join the Group Executive Committee.

Abrahamson joins IHG from Global Hyatt Corporation, where he served as head of development for the Americas. He was responsible for the development of all Hyatt brands in the region and the Franchise Owner Relations Group supporting its full service and select service franchise hotels. Abrahamson played a key part in Global Hyatt’s entry into new markets and segments, leading on the acquisitions of AmeriSuites and Summerfield Suites and developing new concepts Hyatt Place and Hyatt Summerfield Suites. He oversaw all aspects of operations, franchising and development for these two new brands.

Abrahamson has 30 years of management experience in hotel operations, branding, development and franchisee relations. Previous to Global Hyatt he was president and COO of Baymont Inns and Woodfield Suites and senior vice president of Hilton Hotels Corporation, where he served in a variety of senior management roles during his 12 years with the company. While at Hilton, he led the development and launch of Hilton Garden Inn. Earlier in his career, Abrahamson held a number of general management positions for Embassy Suites and Holiday Inn.

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