The Hunter Hotel Investment Conference will feature a fireside chat with Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, interviewed by Mitch Patel, CEO of Vision Hospitality Group.
Taking the Hunter stage for the first time as CEO, Capuano will pay tribute to trailblazers in the industry while also discussing the pressing topics in hospitality today and his vision for the future. Capuano will delve into the story of Marriott International's history, paying homage to the enduring legacy of the Marriott family while honoring the impactful contributions of the late Arne Sorenson, his predecessor.
Since joining Marriott in 1995, Capuano has had a front-row seat to the company's evolution. Having once received a rejection letter from Marriott as a fresh college graduate, Capuano will reflect on the pivotal mentors who led him to fill the biggest shoes at the company today. His journey within Marriott, from various leadership positions to overseeing global development, design and operations, reflects commitment to building a lasting impact in the industry. With extensive experience in market planning, feasibility analysis and hotel development, Capuano ensures Marriott remains a global leader in hospitality.
“Hunter never fails to provide a thought-provoking forum for our industry to come together and share ideas. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year holds and sharing the stage with Mitch, a long-time colleague and friend,” Capuano said in a statement. “Over the past few years, we’ve seen the proven power and resilience of travel, and I couldn’t be prouder to work in this industry alongside such innovative and creative minds.”
Patel founded Vision Hospitality Group in 1997 with the aim of creating a company dedicated to excellence with a focus on community and family. On top of a career with more than 60 hotels developed, 15 hotels in the pipeline and 42 hotels in their portfolio, Patel is passionate about building a lasting impact on the industry, with a focus in his hometown of Chattanooga, where he maintains his presence on boards of local organizations that support education, economic development and ending human trafficking.
"We are thrilled to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Hunter by honoring the stories of those who have paved the way for us," said Lee Hunter, chairman of the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference. "At its core, Hunter is a conference for hotel owners, developers, franchises, and investors. I am confident that our attendees will resonate with the stories, values and goals that Tony and Mitch will share.”