BWH Hotel Group announced that David Kong, President and Chief Executive Officer, will be retiring at the end of 2021. His successor will be announced at the company’s Annual Convention on October 7th.
David Kong, the longest-running CEO of any major hotel company, joined Best Western Hotels & Resorts in 2001 and was named CEO in 2004. During this 20-year journey, David Kong would transform the company, form BWH Hotel Group growing the company from one brand to 18, covering nearly every segment of the industry, with 4,500 hotels in 100 countries.
David Kong is a once in a lifetime leader whose contributions to Best Western and BWH Hotel Group are truly immeasurable.
Ishwar Naran, Board Chairman, BWH Hotel Group
It has been the honor of my career to work alongside David and witness first-hand his remarkable passion and dedication to our industry. David has always led by example and, most importantly, cared deeply about those he serves from hoteliers, to colleagues, associates, guests and communities.
David Kong’s first step toward a lifelong career in hospitality began as a dishwasher and busboy. When he arrived in the United States from Hong Kong as a young adult, like many immigrants before him, he had no money, no job, and no connections to offer support. Despite these challenges, David Kong rose through the ranks of the hospitality industry, culminating in his role as President and CEO of BWH Hotel Group.
This industry has empowered me to dream boldly about the future and to pursue those dreams without hesitation. I feel blessed to have been surrounded by exceptional teams throughout my career and through sheer passion and dedication, we have chased bold dreams and achieved what many might have considered impossible.
David Kong, President & CEO BWH Hotel Group
I feel very fortunate to have played a role in building BWH Hotel Group into the brand it is today. I have always wanted to move on at my peak. With our caring culture, our extraordinary hoteliers, executive team, and corporate staff, I have no doubt the best is yet to come for BWH Hotel Group.
