Description
Growing up in Germany, Horst knew he wanted to be in the hospitality business. His first job was at 14 as a hotel busboy. Today, he is recognized around the world as a charismatic leader, an entrepreneur and a man of prophetic vision and market savvy who speaks to every aspect of customer-based success.
As founding president of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Horst managed an operating budget of $1.2 billion and set a new international standard for personalized service. After his retirement from the organization, he went on to form The West Paces Hospitality Group.
He was named Corporate Hotelier of the World by Hotels magazine and was awarded the Ishikawa Medal for his personal contribution to the quality movement. In 1999, Johnson & Wales University recognized him with an honorary Doctor of Business Administration in hospitality management.
Horst is the author of “Excellence Wins: A No-Nonsense Guide to Becoming the Best in a World of Compromise.”
Professional Experience
Chairman and CEO, WP Hospitality Group (formerly Capella Hotels and Resorts)
Vice Chairman; Founding Member, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
General Manager; Regional Vice President; Corporate Vice President, Hyatt Hotels Corporation
