JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Feb. 9, 2023—Key International, a real estate investment and development company, and Shaner Hotels, an award winning, international hotel owner, operator and developer, today announced that Craig Barnett has been named general manager of the 156-suite SpringHill Suites by Marriott® Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront in Fla. Set to open its doors to guests Spring of 2023, Shaner will operate the hotel on behalf of ownership, Key International.
“With his background opening and operating new hotels, Craig is the ideal candidate to lead the soon-to-open SpringHill Suites Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront,” said Jeff Truhlar, regional vice president of operations, Shaner Hotels. “He has a familiarity with both the Marriott system and the Florida hospitality industry, creating a natural fit that will quickly bring the hotel to the forefront of the Jacksonville market.”
With nearly three decades of hospitality experience, Barnett began his career as a guest services manager at the Unition Station Hotel in downtown Nashville, Tenn. Since then, he has held general manager positions at Marriott properties in Lexington, Ky., Nashville, Tenn., and Tampa, Fla. Barnett received his associates degree in arts with a hotel/restaurant management concentration from Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tenn.
“We’re delighted to introduce Craig as part of the stellar team at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Jacksonville Beach,” said Shawn Gracey, executive vice president of hospitality, Key International. “Craig’s passion for hospitality services is yet another asset that makes this beachfront hotel a standout. We’re thrilled to be approaching the opening date, especially as Jacksonville Beach continues to gain further recognition as one of Florida’s top coastal destinations.”
Located at 465 North First Street adjacent to the beach, the hotel site is located near to the area’s top attractions including Adventure Landing, Shipwreck Island Water Park, multiple golf courses and the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens. Hotel amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, an ocean view pool and fitness center. Guests can grab a quick bite in the 24/7 lobby market for snacks, beverages and necessities or drinks and specialty plates at the hotel oceanfront bar and restaurant. Suites feature mini-refrigerator, microwave, dry bar and complimentary coffee.
“This new SpringHill Suites is well on its way to becoming one of the star lodging attractions of Jacksonville Beach,” Barnett said. “This will be a custom SpringHill Suites that will be make the brand proud and stand-out amongst the accommodation choices here at this quaint beach town.”
