The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA) presented Dean Lane, General Manager of the Palmer House Hilton, with the Hotelier of the Year award for the Chicago Region at the 16th Annual Stars of the Industry Awards (October 30, 2013). Chosen by a panel of 34 judges, Lane beat out 661 other nominees across eleven categories for the top award and will compete for the national honor presented by the American Hotel & Lodging Association in March of 2014.
General Manager Dean Lane. Courtesy of Palmer House Hilton
As one of the most competitive awards in the industry, the hotelier of the year category is awarded to one individual who exemplifies true character and passion for his or her hotel and position as well as exemplary leadership to all associates. The winner in this group demonstrates innovative and successful implementation of a positive work environment while exceeding guest expectations, and a strong commitment to serve their community and betterment of industry. Alongside Lane, finalists for the 2013 hotelier of the year category were John Wells, General Manager of the Hilton Chicago, and Pierre-Louis Giacotto, General Manager of Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago.
“It is an honor to be recognized for this prestigious award in such a competitive marketplace,” General Manager Dean Lane says. “I want to thank the IHLA for the selection and also congratulate all of the other nominees as we try to advance our industry and provide the best service possible.”
Winners of the three regions are under review by an independent panel of judges to be announced as state finalists and awarded the top state honor of Illinois Hotelier of the Year on December 19th at Fairmont Chicago. State winners will also compete for the national honor–Outstanding General Manager of the Year– presented by the American Hotel & Lodging Association in March, 2014, in Washington D.C. More information on the National Stars of the Industry Recognition Program can be found at: http://www.ahla.com/stars/.
