Vern Lakusta has been appointed as General Manager at The Highland Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Highland Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton, is pleased to announce the appointment of Vern Lakusta as general manager. Bringing more than two decades of experience across luxury hotels and resorts throughout North America, Lakusta will oversee all facets of hotel operations, including guest experience, food and beverage, team development, financial performance and strategic initiatives.
Lakusta joins The Highland Dallas from Harvest Inn in St. Helena, Calif., where he served as managing director since 2021. During his tenure, he focused on enhancing the guest journey, strengthening team engagement and driving financial performance, contributing to significant improvements in visitor satisfaction and national recognition for the property. Prior to Harvest Inn, Lakusta served as general manager of Hotel E in Santa Rosa, Calif., and assistant general manager of Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City. He also spent nearly six years at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, where he held several leadership positions, including executive director of hotel operations and interim general manager. Lakusta earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Hospitality Management from Toronto Metropolitan University and holds a Level 1 certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Located in Dallas' vibrant Park Cities neighborhood, The Highland Dallas offers a sophisticated retreat just steps from the shopping, dining and entertainment of Mockingbird Station and Southern Methodist University. The hotel features renovated accommodations, an outdoor pool, a full-service spa and flexible meeting and event spaces. Guests can also dine at the property's signature restaurant, The Reserve at The Highland, a modern American grille showcasing Texas-raised meats, seasonal ingredients and bold American flavors in a refined yet welcoming setting.