SARASOTA, FL – FEBRUARY 2018 – Art Ovation Hotel, slated to open early this year in Sarasota, Florida, announced the appointment of Matthew Simone as General Manager of the 162-room boutique property. Simone brings an unparalleled knowledge of the market to his new role and will be responsible for all departments with duties that include managing daily operations, staff development, budgeting and financial planning, increasing sales and revenue, ensuring guest satisfaction, as well as the incorporation of hotel programming and initiatives upon its opening. “We are excited to have Matthew on board and feel he will make a valuable contribution to the hotel’s opening journey, and beyond,” said Brian Hockenbury, Senior Vice President of Operations at Shaner Hotels. “His enthusiasm and strong leadership skills will play a major role in offering fine service and guest satisfaction, while bringing out the hotel’s unique character and charm.” Prior to joining the team at Art Ovation Hotel, Simone held various senior management positions at Ritz-Carlton Hotels across the nation. With a career spanning 17 years in the hospitality industry, he has acquired expertise in all key areas of hotel operations, including revenue management, financial acumen, human resources, food and beverage, and project leadership – including leading the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota in 2001, the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain in 2009, and contributing as a member of the Opening Training team for the Luxury Lifestyle Brand Edition, Waikiki Hi. “I’m excited to be a part of such a significant project,” says Matthew Simone. “I look forward to leading the team as we establish an environment that offers guests an unforgettable stay and ideal gateway into a city known for its incredible arts and culture.” The art-focused boutique hotel will join Marriott’s Autograph Collection this year and plans to make its mark as Sarasota’s signature hotel of the arts. It will have an exponential arts focus embracing Sarasota’s extensive cultural offerings. For more information, visit http://artovationhotel.com.