MCLEAN, Va. – March 5, 2019 – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announced the appointment of Talene Lanuza Staab as Global Head of Tru by Hilton, the fastest hotel brand to launch in industry history. Effective March 11, Staab will serve as the chief strategist and champion for Tru, overseeing the brand’s product and service positioning, distribution strategies, and owner relations.
“Since we welcomed our first Tru in 2017, we have opened more than 50 properties across the United States and currently have more than 300 hotels in the pipeline,” said Bill Duncan, Global Head, All Suites, Focused Services and Owner Relations Category. “With such an aggressive development strategy, we knew we needed a leader with both extensive brand management experience and an excellent reputation within the owner community. Talene’s background made her the perfect fit, and we could not be more excited to continue on this incredible trajectory with her at the helm.”
Staab, a 25-year Hilton veteran, brings to Tru a unique blend of hospitality experience spanning owner relations, sales, brand performance support and brand development. As Vice President, Owner Experience & Engagement, Staab oversaw the team responsible for advancing overall owner value and satisfaction, building a best-in-class experience for Hilton’s owner community. Prior, Talene served as Senior Director, BPS – Canopy by Hilton, where she focused on the brand’s development and was instrumental in advancing its service and hospitality culture.
“This truly is Hilton’s most dynamic year yet,” said Staab. “I could not be more proud and grateful to be leading one of our most innovative brands as we celebrate 100 years of hospitality. Together with the Tru team, I am excited to continue bringing the unprecedented Tru experience to more and more guests during this unique time in our history.”
Staab holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel & Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. She is based in Hilton's global headquarters in McLean, Virginia and reports directly to Bill Duncan, Global Head, All Suites and Focused Service Category.
Alexandra Jaritz has accepted the newly created role of SVP, Focused Service Brand Management (APAC), where she now leads the positioning of Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands in this important growth region, including China. Jaritz is based in Singapore and continues to report directly to Bill Duncan. As the previous Global Head of Tru by Hilton, Jaritz led the creation and launch of the Tru brand in record time.
