CHICAGO—Spire Hospitality President and CEO Bill DeForrest has been awarded the 2015 Kemmons Wilson Service Award presented by IHAI, the Owners’ Association of InterContinental Hotels Group brand hotels.
The annual Kemmons Wilson Service Award honors the late Kemmons Wilson, founder of the Holiday Inn brand, and recognizes an individual who embodies Wilson’s spirit, according to the company. IHAI selected DeForrest for his exceptional contributions to the IHG system, leadership and commitment to the hospitality industry.
“I am honored to be recognized with the Kemmons Wilson Service award. Our industry has so many great leaders and to be considered among the previous winners of this prestigious award is humbling and a great honor,” said DeForrest. “I am incredibly fortunate to work with the great Spire Hospitality team as they are the ones who keep me energized, allow me to contribute to our industry all while ensuring our company performs well for our owner’s and investor’s and continues to grow.”
DeForrest joined Lane Hospitality, now Spire Hospitality, in 1996 as SVP of development until he was promoted to his current position as president and CEO four years later. Previously, he assumed chairmanship of the IAHI Board of Directors where he represented the interests of 3,000 owners worldwide.