Conner White Steps Up as Vice Chair and Chief Investment Officer
Conner White Appointed as Vice Chair and Chief Investment Officer
White Lodging, a premier name in urban and lifestyle hospitality development and management, proudly announces the appointment of Conner White to the important position of Vice Chair and Chief Investment Officer. Conner comes from a lineage of hospitality excellence, being the eldest son of chairperson Beth White and the late founder Bruce White.
Strategic Leadership for Growth
Under the continued leadership of CEO Jean-Luc Barone, Conner will work closely with the White family and the Board of Directors. Together, they will forge strategies that aim to drive growth through acquisitions and new hotel developments, while reinforcing the company’s top-tier management operations that have distinguished White Lodging in the competitive hospitality landscape.
Emphasizing Family Values in Business
Beth White, the Chair of White Lodging, highlighted the critical nature of Conner's collaboration with Jean-Luc over recent years. Together, they have navigated a landscape marked by challenges such as financing issues and rising operational costs. Beth expressed her unwavering confidence in the future of White Lodging as it transitions into the next chapter as a multi-generational family-owned business, grounded in values established by Bruce White four decades ago.
New Developments and Future Aspirations
Conner White has played a pivotal role in the recent successful openings of the Kimpton Santo Hotel and Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection, which launched in 2024. He also facilitated the groundwork for the company’s 13th property in Austin, Texas, set to begin operations soon. Additionally, he is the driving force behind the upcoming second hotel in Charlotte, NC, signaling White Lodging’s ambitious growth trajectory.
A Vision for the Future
In discussing his new leadership role, Conner shared his vision, emphasizing a commitment to providing exceptional service to guests, employees, and owners. He highlighted that White Lodging is focused not on becoming the largest but rather the best in the industry, positioning itself for sustainable growth through innovative urban hotel developments and strategic acquisitions in new and existing markets across the U.S.
Celebrating a Milestone Year
The year 2025 marks a significant milestone as White Lodging celebrates its 40th anniversary. Jean-Luc Barone stated that Conner’s alignment with Bruce White’s original vision for hospitality makes him an ideal fit for the role. Together, they aspire to uphold and enhance White Lodging’s esteemed reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry.
A Proven Track Record in Hospitality
Conner White’s extensive experience at White Lodging spans over 15 years and encompasses various leadership roles in operations, real estate, and development. His prior professional journey includes successful positions with Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant Group in Chicago and Dunkin Donuts in China, showcasing his diverse expertise in the hospitality sector. With an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Indiana University under his belt, Conner is well-equipped for his new responsibilities.
White Lodging’s Extraordinary Portfolio
Since its founding in 1985, White Lodging has developed over 210 hotels, managing around 60 premium urban and lifestyle properties with approximately 15,000 rooms across renowned brands such as Marriott, IHG (Kimpton), Hyatt, and Hilton. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality experiences, focusing on elevating service standards in hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new role has Conner White been appointed to?
Conner White has been named Vice Chair and Chief Investment Officer of White Lodging.
What experience does Conner White bring to his new position?
He has over 15 years of experience in various leadership roles within White Lodging, along with experience in expanding restaurant chains.
How is White Lodging planning to grow its portfolio?
The company aims to grow through strategic acquisitions and new urban hotel developments across targeted markets in the U.S.
What has been the company’s focus for nearly four decades?
White Lodging has focused on developing curated urban and lifestyle properties, delivering exceptional service and quality.
What are Conner White’s thoughts on industry aspirations?
He believes the company should focus on being the best instead of the biggest, ensuring a commitment to excellent guest experiences.
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