Hilton Hotels Corporation has appointed a new CEO, Matthew Hart (pictured), who will take over from Stephen Bollenbach from 1 January 2008. Hart, who was elected to the board at the beginning of this year, currently serves as president and chief operating officer.
In the company”s 90-year history, Hart is only the fourth CEO, following Conrad Hilton, Barron Hilton and Bollenbach. He joined the company in 1996 and has been instrumental in a number of important landmarks for the company, including the acquisitions of Bally”s Entertainment, Promus Hotel Company and Hilton International.
He also created and implemented the company”s current financial strategy, has overseen numerous hotel acquisitions and has introduced various new projects, such as the company”s luxury brand, The Waldorf-Astoria Collection.
”With nearly 30 years of experience in the lodging industry and the breadth of his responsibilities here at Hilton since 1996, including driving our financial and operational activities, Matt is uniquely suited to lead our company into the future and strengthen our position as the premier global hotel company,” said Bollenbach.
Hart added: ”Our company”s worldwide prospects and opportunities have never been greater and with the industry”s best management team and 100,000 talented and dedicated team members around the world, we look forward to continue delivering great results to our customers, our owners and to our shareholders.”