LOS ANGELES, Aug. 30, 2016 — sbe, the Los Angeles-based leading lifestyle hospitality company that develops, manages and operates award-winning hospitality venues, announced today it has appointed Rod Lapasin as General Manager of the highly-anticipated SLS Seattle. Spanning 16 floors of The Mark, a premier mixed-use 44-story development on the iconic Seattle skyline, SLS Seattle is situated in the heart of the city. With over 35 years of hospitality experience, Lapasin will oversee the day-to-day operations of the SLS Hotel's debut in Seattle, slated for the summer of 2017.
"I have known Rod for over 20 years, and it gives me great pleasure to welcome him to the sbe family. His knowledge of the Pacific Northwest and his ability to continuously deliver exceptional guest experiences make him a perfect match for our world-class hotel," said Arash Azarbarzin, President of sbe Hotel Group. "Rod has led some of the most notable hotels in Seattle. This experience, coupled with his passion for the business, will be instrumental in creating an unrivaled luxury experience in Seattle and will allow SLS Seattle to lead the market."
Legendary designer Philippe Starck will make his Seattle debut at SLS, conjuring a vision of modern luxury. The hotel will showcase 189 guest rooms and suites, nearly 28,000 square feet of conference and event space, state-of-the-art spa and fitness facilities, along with 13,000 square feet of food and beverage offerings. Boasting a sophisticated restaurant and cocktail lounge situated 16 floors above the city center, SLS Seattle will introduce the city to new and innovative culinary concepts.
"I am very excited about Rod leading the SLS Seattle team given his past successes and extensive experience," said Kevin Daniels, the inspiration behind bringing the SLS Hotel and Philippe Starck's incredible design talent to Seattle. "Rod will play an instrumental role in bringing energy and excitement to the Midtown neighborhood as it evolves to a 24/7 environment."
"sbe has become one of the most transformative forces in the hospitality industry," stated Lapasin. "Seattle guests will now have the opportunity to experience the iconic brand and the refined design and flawless service that is SLS Hotels."
Prior to joining sbe, Lapasin served as the General Manager of the renowned Salish Lodge & Spa. Within the Columbia Hospitality Inc. portfolio, he was a managing consultant for the Kenwood Inn and Spa in Sonoma, CA and managed the TCP Snoqualmie Ridge Golf Course in Snoqualmie, WA. Lapasin held numerous executive positions with The Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle, Four Seasons Olympic Hotel and the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. He began his career with Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Lapasin was also awarded the 2011 Washington State Lodging Association Manager of the Year Award.
