New York, USA | September 2026
The Standard, High Line has appointed Dieter Schmitz as its new Managing Director, bringing an experienced luxury and lifestyle hospitality executive to the leadership team of one of New York City’s most recognisable hotels.
Schmitz joins the iconic property with an impressive background spanning hotel openings, renovations, repositioning, operations, and guest experience. Throughout his career, he has worked across some of the United States’ most competitive hospitality markets, leading both international hotel groups and independent lifestyle properties.
Dieter Schmitz Brings Extensive Hospitality Experience
Before joining The Standard, High Line, Schmitz served as General Manager of Sofitel New York, where he played a central role in the hotel’s extensive transformation. His tenure included overseeing the renovation of all 398 guest rooms and public spaces, while also focusing on improving the overall guest experience and strengthening employee engagement.
Under his leadership, Sofitel New York recorded its highest levels of guest satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance in the property’s 25-year history. The results reflected Schmitz’s ability to combine operational performance with a strong focus on both guests and employees.
Leadership at Riggs DC and ADERO Scottsdale
Schmitz previously served as General Manager of Riggs DC, where he helped lead Lore Group’s entry into the U.S. hospitality market.
He later moved to Arizona to lead ADERO Scottsdale, Autograph Collection, where he oversaw the property’s approximately $100 million redevelopment and opening. The experience further strengthened his expertise in managing complex hotel transformations and large-scale development projects.
Experience Across Major Hotel Openings
Earlier in his career, Schmitz was involved in the opening and operation of three new-build Manhattan hotels for IHG. The properties achieved strong guest satisfaction and employee engagement results and were also recognised among Tripadvisor’s Top 25 Hotels in the USA.
Overall, Schmitz has been involved in eight major hotel openings, redevelopments, and renovation projects across New York, Washington, D.C., Arizona, and California.
His professional background includes leadership roles and experience with major hospitality companies such as Accor, IHG, and Marriott, alongside independent lifestyle hotel groups.
A New Chapter for The Standard, High Line
In his new role as Managing Director of The Standard, High Line, Schmitz will bring his experience in hotel operations, repositioning, renovations, and lifestyle hospitality to one of New York City’s most distinctive hotel destinations.
Located in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, The Standard, High Line is recognised for its bold design, restaurants, public spaces, and energetic atmosphere. The property has established a distinctive identity within New York’s competitive lifestyle hotel market, where guest experience and brand personality are closely connected to commercial performance.
Schmitz’s background in transforming hotels and building strong operational cultures could prove particularly relevant as the property continues to evolve within the city’s dynamic hospitality landscape.
Dieter Schmitz to Lead the Hotel’s Next Chapter
With experience spanning major hotel openings, large-scale redevelopment projects, renovations, and performance-focused operations, Schmitz brings a broad hospitality skill set to his new position.
At The Standard, High Line, his focus will be on continuing to develop the property’s guest experience, strengthening team culture, and supporting its presence in New York’s highly competitive lifestyle hospitality market.
His appointment marks the beginning of a new leadership chapter for The Standard, High Line as the hotel continues to build on the distinctive character and guest experience that have made it a notable destination in New York City.
