Monty Bennett
Chief Executive Officer Ashford Inc in Henderson County, Texas, USA
Monty Bennett is a highly respected hotel magnate based in Dallas, Texas. As the founder and chairman of Ashford Hospitality Trust, Braemar Hotels & Resorts, and the CEO of Ashford, Inc., he has built a portfolio that includes over 100 hotels across the United States. His leadership in the hospitality industry has earned him a stellar reputation, and he manages a diverse range of upscale properties. Through these ventures, he and his teams have cultivated a successful enterprise that continues to expand in size, influence, and innovation.
The foundation of Bennett’s journey in the hotel business dates back to the late 1960s when his family first ventured into hospitality. Over the years, he has taken the family business to new heights, growing it from an initial collection of six hotels to a portfolio of over 130 properties. His focus has always been on luxury and full-service accommodations, with his collection of resort properties extending beyond the continental U.S., including destinations like the U.S. Virgin Islands. He has an impressive understanding of the hospitality landscape, which has allowed him to thrive in an ever-competitive market continually.
Monty is a proud graduate of Cornell University and originally hails from Houston, Texas, where he grew up as one of seven siblings. Today, he resides in both Dallas and Athens, Texas. His family has lived in Athens for over 30 years, and the town has become a meaningful place for him and his growing family. His success in the hospitality industry is matched by his strong ties to his community, where he continues to make a lasting impact.
Monty Bennett’s current roles span several influential positions in the hospitality sector. As the chairman and founder of Braemar Hotels & Resorts, he oversees a luxury-focused hotel group that operates 13 properties, including notable landmarks like The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas and The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe. These iconic properties embody the company’s five core principles: ethics, innovation, profitability, engagement, and tenacity. His strategic vision and leadership have driven Braemar Hotels & Resorts to become a distinguished name in the luxury hotel industry.