Increasing Market Share Outside U.S. Triggers
Personnel Change
PHOENIX, June 22, 2004 - In response to its increasing growth
and market share outside the United States, Best Western has named David
Kong its new executive vice president, international operations effective
immediately.
The move will consolidate the company's international initiatives and
help ensure continuity between domestic operations and offshore affiliates.
Kong's primary responsibilities will
include Best Western's international strategy, operations and image. He
will also lead negotiations related to affiliation agreements and oversee
in-region offices in Asia, South America and Europe, among others.
"It is important to put someone in place who thoroughly understands
our domestic business model and can use that knowledge in implementing
a strong international strategy. Equally important is the ability to collaborate
and negotiate with all of our stakeholders. David is just the person for
this position," said Tom Higgins, Best Western president and CEO.
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David Kong |
Kong has spent the last three years of his career with Best Western.
Most recently, he was the company's senior vice president of marketing
and development. He has more than 35 years of industry experience, with
many years in senior management positions at Hyatt, KPMG Consulting, and
Omni International. He has also worked for Hilton, Hilton International
and Regent International.
The company is currently conducting a national search for Kong's marketing
and development replacement.
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with
more than 4,100 hotels in 81 countries and territories. It is a membership
association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing,
reservations and operational support to its members. |