PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 15, 2017 — GF Management, a leading hotel ownership and management company with more than 85 upscale and midscale U.S. hotels and resorts in its portfolio, today announced that Joseph D Del Guidice has been named as the company’s President. Joseph joined GF Management 16 months ago as the Senior Vice President of Operations and has worked closely with its CEO Ken Kochenour.
Del Guidice, a 22-year hospitality veteran, has in-depth hotel operations expertise. "Joe further strengthens our operational capabilities, especially in the full-service arena," said Ken Kochenour, CEO of GF Management. "Joe brings with him a management style that would be defined as true hospitality, he does this by creating a culture of engagement with our associates," Kochenour added. "His experience includes hotels in all market tiers, from luxury to upscale select-service, with leading brands in the Marriott, Hilton, InterContinental, Carlson and Starwood families."
Previously, Del Guidice was a Vice President of Operations at HHM/Hersha Hospitality with responsibility for 34 hotels, and $250 million in annual revenue. He played an integral role in the company's expansion into the New York City and Texas markets. During this growth period, he was instrumental in transitioning new assets to the company, including the world famous Rittenhouse hotel. Del Guidice also created the first hotel company partnership with Autism Speaks, creating awareness by lighting up all hotels blue and raising over $100,000 for families on the spectrum.
"This past year has been a great experience as our Executive team has worked hard to correct cultural deficiencies. Last year we implemented many programs that focus on employee retention and growth. This helps us to attract top notch talent as we continue to grow the company,” Joe states. “2017 will prove to be a great year for GF and I am excited to lead this amazing team of hospitality professionals.”
Del Guidice currently serves on the advisory board for Radisson hotels and sits on the York College Hospitality advisory board. Joe is a family man who has two daughters, Kristin and Melissa and has been married to his childhood sweetheart, Noelle, for 27 years. He enjoys playing tennis and spending time with his family during his down time.