CLEVELAND (April 2018) – Hartmut Ott, general manager at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center,1360 W Mall Dr., announced today that Michael Howe has been named director of hotel operations. In this position, Howe will assist Ott in managing all aspects of the multi-million-dollar renovation currently underway at the hotel. The extensive renovation of the property’s public spaces, including the front desk, lobby, meeting and event space, as well as the spa and restaurant is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2018. He also will oversee the entire room, food & beverage divisions, which represent the vast majority of the hotel’s employees. These divisions include the front desk, housekeeping, new great room, new market/pantry, new M-Club, the banquet operation in the hotel’s new meeting space, as well as the culinary team.
Prior to joining the leadership team at Cleveland Marriott Downtown, Howe served as director of catering and event management at the 752-room flagship Westin Michigan Avenue in Chicago. In this position, he was routinely recognized for his outstanding contributions, which included being named manager of the quarter for his innovative cost-cutting initiatives.
He also served in a variety of food and beverage, catering and convention services leadership positions at a variety of high-end resorts including the The Modern Honolulu, Honolulu, Hawaii, The Royal Hawaiian, Honolulu, Hawaii, The Four Seasons Resorts Lanai and more. He began his hospitality career at Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada.
“We are thrilled to have someone with Mike’s extensive experience join us here at the Cleveland Marriott,” said Ott. “His dedication to guest service and satisfaction is second to none and we know that will be passed along ensuring that each and every guest enjoys their stay with us.”
A Chicago native, Howe was awarded his bachelor of arts degree in marketing/business administration from the University of Nevada in Las Vegas. He looks forward to becoming involved in Cleveland civic and business organizations in his new hometown. While in Chicago, he was an active member of the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association.
