DALLAS (May 1, 2023) – Set to open in the Summer of 2023, Hôtel Swexan, owned and operated by global Dallas-based real estate firm, Harwood International, is pleased to announce key appointments to its leadership team including General Manager, Julian Payne, Vice President of Operations, Ben Yoo and Executive Chef, Raymond Bocanegra. A family-owned, 134-room boutique concept, Hôtel Swexan’s leadership team is comprised of acclaimed industry veterans that will work together to introduce a new level of luxury to Dallas.
Having a track record of over 30 years of proven success managing both boutique and top 5 star hotels including The Ritz London, Le Crillon Paris and Mandarin Oriental Hotels in both London and Hong Kong, Julian Payne is well-equipped to step into the role of General Manager for Hôtel Swexan.
His boutique and “hands on” management style was grounded at Threadneedles Hotel, London and Blakes Hotel London before coming to the States in 2015 and opening Wave Resort, New Jersey, Timber Cove Resort, California and most recently The Rockaway Hotel, New York City. Striving for nothing short of perfection, Payne will prioritize consistently delivering an exceptional personalized guest experience, while maximizing revenue and profitability.
Ben Yoo joins Hôtel Swexan as the Vice President of Operations, bringing an abundance of knowledge and expertise from his over 16 years of working in luxury hotel operations. Prior to his time with Hôtel Swexan, Yoo began his career with a variety of senior leadership roles at Wynn and Encore Las Vegas, and has since served in executive leadership roles at properties including Hotel Bel-Air, Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, and WinStar World Casino and Resort. Originally from Los Angeles, Yoo earned his Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Inspired by creating bespoke experiences, Yoo is dedicated to transforming Hôtel Swexan into a destination that delights all guests.
Raymond Bocanegra has been hired as the Executive Chef for Hôtel Swexan, where he will spearhead and cultivate the menus for Hôtel Swexan’s five onsite culinary concepts, including Isabelle’s, Babou’s, Stillwell’s, Leonie and Pomelo. Bringing over 15 years of culinary experience to his role, Bocanegra has previously served at standout hotels and resorts including Colorado’s famed Broadmoor Resort and The Ritz Carlton Denver, and most recently, as the Resort Chef at Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, California. Bocanegra will manage Hôtel Swexan’s entire culinary team, food preparation and menu development and procurement. A Texas native and a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Austin, Bocanegra is thrilled his culinary passion led him back to his home state.
“We are very fortunate to have Julian, Ben and Raymond join the Hôtel Swexan family,” said Matthew Minichino, Chief Operating Officer of Harwood Hospitality Group. “We have full confidence that their combined expertise, collaborative leadership style and dedication to excellence will inspire the entire team and elevate the Hôtel Swexan experience to new heights.”
Situated in the heart of Dallas, Hôtel Swexan offers enchanting suites, five independent hospitality concepts, a private social club and an expansive rooftop infinity pool perched 20 floors high with panoramic views of the Dallas skyline.
