Ted Knighton has been appointed as Managing Director at Thompson Palm Springs, by Hyatt
Thompson Palm Springs, one of California’s most prolific new hotels and a celebrated staple of Palm Springs’ Palm Canyon Drive, welcomes Ted Knighton as Managing Director. In his new role, Knighton is responsible for the daily operations and commercial strategies of Thompson Palm Springs, with a focused effort on crafting the next chapter for the hotel’s sustained success and developing engaging guest experiences for new and returning travelers to immerse into a chic, resort atmosphere in the heart of Southern California’s most buzzing desert destination.
Utilizing his nearly two decades of hospitality experience, Knighton will oversee the official launch and branding of Thompson Palm Springs’ exclusive Upper Stories experience, a polished 21 and over collection of accommodations secluded within a private tower and featuring its own pool and dedicated programming. Knighton’s creative approach has reimagined the experience to include elevated in-room design touches, exclusive poolside amenities and lifestyle collaborations, and luxury touch points for all Upper Stories stays—ushering in an innovative stay unlike anything else currently available in the market. Knighton will also steward the introduction of a new, rooftop cocktail experience dubbed The Perch, which will offer its own unique menu, daily live music, artist collaborations and beyond, while accentuating the stunning mountain scenery.
Additional focus will be on elevating the hotel’s lively restaurant and lounge, Lola Rose Grand Mezze, as a must-try desert destination and championing Executive Chef, Quentin Garcia; supporting the lease-out of The Shops at Thompson Palm Springs, bringing in fresh retailers to join Lip Lab, Design Within Reach and Free People; and further building out the guest experience to appeal to culture-creatures and globally-minded travelers for years to come.
Knighton brings an innate understanding of the Thompson brand, and proven track-record of securing his hotel’s place on the national stage. Most recently, Knighton served as Managing Director of Thompson Houston, overseeing its opening in 2023 and earning its recognition as “Hotel of the Year” for Hyatt Americas. Thompson Houston is also noted as the fastest ramping Thompson property in the history of the brand, further speaking to Knighton’s diligent and progressive leadership. Prior, Knighton oversaw the operations and opening of Thompson San Antonio, elevating into an area leadership role for both Texas properties. Additional, global experience spans Thompson Seattle, The Noelle in Nashville and The Alida in Savannah—both under the MakeReady portfolio, and a collection of Kimpton, Westin and Gaylord properties. Knighton holds a Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management, and Associate Degree in Resort Management, from Johnson & Wales University, and has long-been praised for his passion, creativity and commitment.
Beyond his impact on Thompson Palm Springs, Knighton is dedicated to elevating the hospitality scene of Palm Springs as a whole and sits on the Board of Directors of Palm Springs Resorts. Knighton’s creative, impact-driven mindset will further bolster the entire destination, attracting travelers from across the globe.
To learn more about Thompson Palm Springs, please visit https://www.hyatt.com/thompson-hotels/en-US/pspaz-thompson-palm-springs and follow along on Instagram: @thompsonpalmsprings.
Ted Knighton is an alumnus of Johnson & Wales University .