Real estate investment and hospitality management company Highgate has appointed Arash Azarbarzin as its new CEO. In his new role, Azarbarzin will collaborate with Highgate's co-founders and principals to build upon the company's culture with an emphasis on cultivating and retaining talent while simultaneously expanding relationships with industry partners. This includes a heightened focus on Highgate's environmental, social and corporate governance strategy based on Azarbarzin's experience in sustainable, modern luxury.
Azarbarzin also will lead the development of specialized food-and-beverage and marketing divisions.
"We are thrilled to welcome Arash as Highgate embarks on this next chapter of growth and market leadership," said Mahmood Khimji, co-founder and co-chairman of Highgate's board of directors. "With his proven track record of mentorship and building successful hospitality destinations, he is a brilliant addition to this organization."
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Azarbarzin brings more than 30 years of hotel leadership experience at brands including Four Seasons, St. Regis Hotels, SLS Hotels and W Hotels. Most recently, as CEO for SH Hotels & Resorts, he grew the SH portfolio, comprised of 1 Hotels, Baccarat Hotels and Treehouse Hotels brands.
"It is a great honor to join Highgate and build upon the legacy established by the Khimji family," Azarbarzin said. "I look forward to bringing a new point of view to the already advantageous hospitality powerhouse."
Azarbarzin holds a degree in hotel and restaurant management from United States International University and graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. In 2020, he joined the board of directors of the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the AMAALA Development Advisory Board.
Highgate increased its portfolio by more than 25,000 rooms throughout the U.S., Caribbean and Latin America over the past year.