J.B. McKibbon — Source: McKibbon

McKibbon, a company defined by innovation, integrity, and commitment to service, has grown to become an industry leader in managing and developing numerous hotels in partnership with the largest proprietors in the business. As a company focused on building and managing the best brands in the best locations, there's a strategic approach that takes place behind the scenes - this is where company Asset Manager J.B. McKibbon comes in.

Although J.B. McKibbon officially joined the company in 2017, hospitality is in his DNA. Growing up, J.B. learned valuable lessons in development by watching his father, Chairman John McKibbon, transform vacant land into a bustling space where people live, work and play. J.B. also spent many summers working in various hotel positions including front desk, maintenance and laundry, allowing him a holistic experience in hotel development and management. After graduating from Georgia State University, J.B. worked for Apple REIT where he advanced through the ranks to become Senior Asset Manager. J.B. then went on to join the family business where he currently serves as McKibbon's Asset Manager, providing leadership, strategic focus and financial analysis support for current properties as well as development analysis for proposed projects.

As McKibbon grows, J.B. continues to play an integral role in the company while moving his focus to more development-oriented projects. This allows J.B. to strategically tackle obstacles the hotel industry is currently facing. "While RevPAR growth continues to disappoint, I believe there lies a bigger issue within this industry," says J.B. "Overbuilding is impacting revenue growth for many asset owners. In order to succeed through the ups and downs, hoteliers must partner with the best hotel brands and build in areas with growing demand that can support additional hotel rooms." When building branded hotels, McKibbon adds its own touch by implementing unique F&B operations and locally sourced art and prefers complicated urban, mixed-use projects that are difficult to replicate, allowing the company to stand out from the crowd.

Looking ahead into 2020, J.B. foresees the continued push towards experiential and effortless travel. "Consumers of today want more than just a clean room and consistent service," says J.B. "They want a full experience - whether it be unique F&B offerings or an integrated event with vibrant, photographic moments and lightning-fast internet to share those moments in real-time." With experiential and effortless travel becoming increasingly popular, it's important that hoteliers think outside the box and focus on how to become more uniquely integrated while remaining approachable to the guests."

McKibbon's forward-thinking approach and heavy reinvestment into its assets keeps the company thriving in the hotel industry and ahead of the competition. But more importantly, is McKibbon's investment in its associates that differentiates the company from others in the industry. "We go above and beyond to offer competitive pay, benefits and a workplace culture that allows driven individuals to excel in their careers," said J.B. "McKibbon's legacy is built on a foundation of integrity, anchored in how we value our guests, treat our associates and partners, and give back to our communities." With backgrounds encompassing construction, renovation, architecture and hospitality, McKibbon's associates have the capabilities to create the kind of hospitality experience that no other organization can.

About McKibbon Hospitality

Headquartered in Tampa, FL, McKibbon Hospitality creates memorable hospitality experiences that inspire brand and property loyalty. It's how we"ve grown into one of the largest (and most awarded) hotel management companies in the country. We operate dozens of hotels for Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and other iconic hospitality brands. Our legacy is built on a foundation of integrity, anchored in how we value our guests, treat our associates and partners, and give back to our communities. Visit McKibbon.com to learn more.