Chicago, USA: First Hospitality has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Jack Meakin as Vice President of Business Development, bringing an experienced hospitality development professional into a key role as the company continues to expand its hotel management portfolio across the United States.

Jack Meakin Takes on New Business Development Role

In his new position, Meakin will focus on building relationships with hotel owners, identifying new growth opportunities and expanding First Hospitality’s third-party management business. He will work closely with the company’s development and operations teams to guide potential partnerships from the initial evaluation stage through negotiations and the signing of hotel management agreements.

His role will be particularly focused on identifying opportunities that align with First Hospitality’s growth strategy while creating long-term value for hotel ownership groups.

Nearly a Decade of Hospitality Development Experience

Meakin brings nearly a decade of experience in hospitality development, business growth and owner relations. Before joining First Hospitality, he served as Vice President of Business Development for the Midwest and Southeast at Hotel Equities, where he played an important role in expanding the company’s third-party management platform and supporting broader strategic initiatives.

Earlier in his career at Hotel Equities, Meakin spent three years as Regional Director of Business Development for the Midwest and Southeast. In that position, he managed development activity across a 15-state territory and helped secure 28 third-party hotel management agreements.

His experience across multiple markets has given him a strong understanding of hotel ownership priorities, development opportunities and the challenges involved in expanding management portfolios.

A Career Built from Hotel Operations to Development

Meakin’s hospitality career began at Hotel Equities as a management trainee at a Residence Inn by Marriott in Dunwoody, Georgia. Starting on the operational side of the hotel business provided him with firsthand experience of day-to-day hotel management before he moved into increasingly senior positions focused on development and business growth.

That combination of operational and commercial experience gives Meakin a practical perspective on the needs of both hotel owners and management companies. His background is expected to support First Hospitality as it evaluates new opportunities and develops long-term partnerships with ownership groups.

Supporting First Hospitality’s Nationwide Growth

At First Hospitality, Meakin will be responsible for identifying prospective hotel opportunities, developing relationships with hotel owners and investment groups, and working with internal teams to bring new management partnerships to completion.

His appointment comes at a time when hotel management companies are continuing to look for opportunities to expand their third-party portfolios. By combining development expertise with an understanding of hotel operations, Meakin will help First Hospitality pursue partnerships that complement its existing portfolio and long-term business objectives.

Education and Life Outside Hospitality

Meakin holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of South Carolina, providing an academic foundation that complements his professional experience in hotel operations and development.

Away from work, he enjoys traveling, sports and spending time outdoors, interests that reflect his continued connection to the travel and hospitality world.

First Hospitality Continues Its Expansion

Meakin’s appointment reinforces First Hospitality’s focus on growing its presence in the U.S. hotel market through development, investment and third-party management.

With his experience across the Midwest and Southeast, a track record of securing management agreements and an operational foundation in hotel management, Meakin is positioned to play an important role in the company’s next phase of growth and its efforts to build lasting relationships with hotel owners across the country.