Tune in to Hotels 101 as host Rob Hays and hospitality expert Fred Kleisner engage in a captivating conversation, offering insights into the hotel business from the perspective of an industry veteran.
Fred Kleisner, a seasoned Hotelier/Corporate CEO/COO with over four decades of experience, has spearheaded successful management teams across the globe, contributing expertise in every aspect of the hospitality industry. His experience is unparalleled, ranging from one of the original Holiday Inns to individual, world-class hotels and resorts, to worldwide branded hospitality companies including Waldorf Astoria, Westin, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Wyndham where he served as Chairman, President & CEO.
In this episode, Fred reflects on the current state of the hotel industry, drawing on his experiences throughout multiple economic cycles, highlighting the importance of managing for economic downturns and the role hotels play as a bellwether for economic trends. He even shares his interactions with the entertainment business and the challenges of accommodating VIP requests from notable celebrities such as Elvis Presley.
Join us for a comprehensive journey through the hospitality industry and discover the secrets to running a hotel operation that stands the test of time in today's episode.