The Team

President

Aaron Walker

Aaron Walker is the President of ARK Hospitality. 

Beginning at the age of sixteen with his first job in a family-owned hotel through today, Aaron has gained a lifetime of hospitality experience and is excited to bring that knowledge to ARK Hospitality and its clients.  After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in finance and economics, Aaron continued his hospitality journey with Marriott International serving in numerous property-level management positions.  He later joined Park Management Group and steadily rose in responsibility, serving as Director of Operations and Vice President, helping Park Management grow from 3 hotels to well over 150. 

In 2012, Aaron joined Aimbridge Hospitality as a Vice President of Operations overseeing multiple brands across the United States.  Aaron was instrumental in leading two of the fastest growing divisions within Aimbridge, the economy and economy-extended stay divisions, from their infancy of 16 hotels to over 120 properties.  Results-driven, Aaron prides himself on developing owner-first relationships and has founded ARK Hospitality with that principle at its core; “Everything we do is to create value, build genuine long-lasting relationships, and help maximize returns for our owners”. 

Aaron has had the privilege of serving on numerous national associations and is currently serving as Director of Region 2 on the Choice Hotels Ownership Council.  He has also served as Vice Chairman and Secretary on the executive board within the CHOC association and for many years was a proud member of the Care Committee team at Aimbridge. 

Chief Operating Officer

Jeff Bailey

Jeff Bailey is the Chief Operating Officer for ARK Hospitality.

Jeff’s hospitality career began more than 30 years ago in South Florida. Before joining ARK, he worked at more than a dozen full-service hotels across the country, owned two restaurants, and served as an executive for a rapidly growing hotel company. He has experience with several hotel brands including Marriott, IHG, and Hilton. His accolades include General Manager of the Year, Most Improved Marriott in the World (for Guest Service and Overall Satisfaction), and Best Customer Experience for two consecutive years.

“Together, we’re stronger!” is a quote that has guided much of Jeff’s career. A leader within several community and state hotel associations, Jeff has been engaged in government relations and other efforts to help secure local tourism funds and lead various hotel leaders toward a common goal locally and beyond.

Jeff understands the importance of using his talents and experience to help the overall industry. His desire to develop others has extended to organizing hospitality management high school programs and finding ways to help introduce the hotel industry to organizations that focus their efforts on special needs individuals.

Chief Innovations and Systems Officer

Raymond Manaois

Raymond Manaois is the Chief Innovations and Systems Officer for ARK Hospitality. 

His main responsibility is the company’s information technology needs. When he is not analyzing complex data and transforming them into useful information, he is developing strategies that drive organizational and operational changes and promote efficiency and growth for the organization. Raymond also plays a pivotal role in opening new build hotels and acquisitions.

Before joining HDG Hotels in 2007, Raymond worked as an instructor at the University of the Philippines, Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management, and at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where he taught courses in Hotel Information Technology, Cost Control and Analysis, and Rooms Division Management. Raymond attributes his extensive knowledge and skills in hospitality management to his first job at the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel Manila where he worked as an assistant IT manager after college. Raymond also worked as an assistant controller onboard the cruise ship Norwegian Sun, part of the Norwegian Cruise Lines. Raymond holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Restaurant Administration from the University of the Philippines.

Divisional Vice President

Dennis Sicher

Dennis Sicher is a highly experienced hospitality professional with over 30 years of success in the industry.

With a strong background in customer service and operations management, Dennis has consistently delivered exceptional guest experiences throughout his career.  Before hospitality, Dennis served in the Airforce where he developed valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and attention to detail. His dedication to excellence and commitment to providing top-notch service have earned him a reputation for delivering results. Dennis’s extensive experience, combined with his military background, makes him a reliable and efficient professional in the hospitality field.

While Dennis uses many quotes, his favorite ones are “Control your controllables” and “Do it, do it right, and do it right now.”

In addition to his successful career, Dennis finds joy in his personal life. He is happily married to his wife, Tina. Together, they share a love for their grandchildren and spending quality time with them. Dennis and Tina also have a passion for travel – exploring new destinations and embracing different cultures. They particularly enjoy relaxing on the beach and occasionally embarking on a cruise to unwind and create lasting memories.  This balance between work and personal life reflects Dennis’s ability to prioritize and find fulfillment in both professional and personal endeavors.

Vice President of People and Culture

Gabby Poineau

Gabriela Poineau is the Vice President of People and Culture for ARK Hospitality.

Originally from Chile, South America and having moved to Mississippi as a teenager, she learned English by taking Spanish classes in high school. Her story is truly inspiring and another example of the opportunity that exists in our industry when we commit to learning and growing, core values at ARK. Gabby has been in the hospitality industry since 2009. She started her career with HDG Hotels (Ocala, Florida) in housekeeping. While working toward a degree in accounting, she transitioned to HDG’s accounting department at the corporate office. In 2018, she became HDG’s director of engagement. In 2023, she became the director of people and culture at HDG and ARK. Currently serving as the vice president of people and culture for ARK Hospitality.

Vice President of Accounting

Kyle Sykes

Kyle Sykes is ARK Hospitality’s Vice President of Accounting.

Before joining ARK, Kyle was the director of real estate finance at Advance Auto Parts (AAP) headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina. Previously, he served as the regional finance manager for McDonald’s Corporation. Kyle began his professional career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with RSM.

Kyle is a native North Carolinian and has lived in Raleigh since 2000. He’s a graduate of UNC-Wilmington with both Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) degrees in Accountancy.

Married to his wife Lori of 21 years, they have two daughters, Charlotte and Claire, and a fur baby named Banks – fitting for a vice president of accounting!

Vice President of Sales, Revenue and Marketing

Bryan Mailloux

Bryan Mailloux is the Vice President of Sales, Revenue and Marketing for ARK Hospitality.

Bryan graduated with his Bachelor of Science from Johnson & Wales University. He then graduated from Long Island University with his Master of Business Administration.

Bryan has over 20 years of hospitality sales experience – 19 of those with Aimbridge Hospitality. Most recently, he served as the senior vice president of sales and marketing at TPG Hotels & Resorts. Bryan’s extensive leadership and mentorship have led to numerous award-winning hotels and sales leaders.

Bryan is a driven and innovative hotel sales executive recognized for his ability to position hotels to drive sales and optimize revenue. He is a committed leader who uses extensive industry experience to create and deploy sales and marketing strategies that drive profitability while cultivating and nurturing relationships with colleagues and clients.

Director of Revenue Management

Jackie Lambert

Jackie Lambert is the Director of Revenue Management for ARK Hospitality.

In 2010, she started with HDG Hotels as a breakfast attendant. By 2012, she had worked her way up to general manager. Then in 2013, Jackie found her sweet spot in revenue management. From there she became the director of revenue management in 2016. Shortly after, Jackie graduated Magna Cum Laude from the College of Coastal Georgia with her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). 

In her current role with ARK, she is responsible for overseeing the Revenue Management Department and ensuring ARK’s portfolio maximizes revenues. She also plays a key role in investor relations and new property acquisitions.

Jackie is Host Certified, has completed the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics Program (CHIA), and is a Certified Hospitality Revenue Manager (CHRM).  

Jackie is passionate about revenue management, expanding her knowledge, and growing her team.

Director of Sales

Betsy Baker

Betsy Baker is the Director of Sales for ARK Hospitality.

Over 30 years ago, after attending Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI., Betsy found her true calling in hospitality – sales. She worked as a director of sales and a regional sales manager in New England before returning to upstate New York to raise her family. Betsy was recruited as the director of sales for the Residence Inn by Marriott in Albany, New York where she was quickly promoted to general manager. In this role, she used her market knowledge to create a culture of “pro-active direct sales”, and learned the value of building relationships with guests. This strategy culminated in the hotel winning an award for the Highest Extended Stay Occupancy for the Residence Inn by Marriott brand in 2011.

Then in 2013, Betsy and her husband decided to move to Florida to buy a Bed and Breakfast in New Smyrna Beach. While running the B+B, they held the #1 spot on Trip Advisor in 2016 and the property boasted a 99% guest satisfaction rate. Betsy also competed and won the Travel Channel reality TV Show “Hotel Showdown Impossible” in 2015.

In 2018, she joined HDG as an area sales manager. Shortly after, Betsy became the general manager of HDG’s TownePlace Suites by Marriott Kennedy Space Center – Titusville (TST). With her leadership, TST earned a Platinum Award for Guest Satisfaction by being ranked in the top 5 % of the brand for guest satisfaction in 2019. In 2021, Betsy transitioned back to her first love – sales. In 2022, she became the director of sales, and in 2023, she came onboard with ARK.

Director of Accounting

Rose-lyn Gallagher

Rose-Lyn Gallagher (Rosie) is originally from a small town in the Philippines. There she got her Bachelor’s in Tourism at Polytechnic University. Before moving to the United States, Rosie worked at Allegro Pacific as an offsite manufacturing supervisor for 7 years. After her big move, she studied Accounting at Rasmussen University – earning a certificate with a 4.0 GPA.

In 2015, Rosie joined HDG Hotels as an accounting manager for three hotels. Shortly after, she began managing ten hotels. In 2018, she became HDG’s Director of Accounting – overseeing the accounting department in the U.S., the remote accounting office in the Philippines, and ARK Hospitality.

Director of Operations

Tyler Pitman

Tyler Pitman joins ARK Hospitality as a Director of Operations. With over 10 years of experience leading branded extended stays and select service hotels, he is now responsible for the overall financial and operational performance of numerous branded hotels throughout the United States. Tyler is committed to cultivating a positive and supportive culture that empowers his teams to excel. His leadership is characterized by effective communication, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Tyler leads by example, displaying integrity, adaptability, and a results-driven mindset.

Prior to joining ARK, Tyler served as a regional director of operations at Aimbridge Hospitality – overseeing select service and extended stay hotels across the US with expertise in Marriott, IHG, Wyndham, Choice, and Extended Stay brands. He has a proven track record in operations, sales, revenue strategy, new hotel openings, receiverships, conversions, and transitions.

Director of Hotel Transitions

David Flower

Director of Operations

Jerry Alnemat

Director of Operations

Sarah Chandler

Director of Operations

Tammy Buckley

Director of Facilities Management

Jeffery Marshall

Jeffery Marshall started his hospitality journey in 1985 at a small midwestern hotel chain called Signature Inn – where he stayed for 19 years. At the time, Jeffery’s extensive experience ranged from guest host to housekeeping and maintenance. In 2004, when new management came in and the hotel became a Jameson Inn, he became the regional director of maintenance. Then in 2012, Jeffery became a traveling maintenance tech for PMG Hotels. Shortly after, Aimbridge Hospitality took over and he became a task force engineer. Today, Jeffery is ARK Hospitality’s director of facilities management.

Director of Facilities

Scott Clements

Task Force General Manager

Paula Cendrowski

Paula Cendrowski is a seasoned professional with an impressive 35-year career in the hospitality industry. She began her journey as a housekeeper – diligently working her way up through the ranks. With her dedication and expertise, Paula transitioned into roles such as auditor, day shift manager, assistant general manager, and general manager. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of Task Force General Manager with ARK Hospitality.

Paula’s extensive experience spans various hotel brands, making her a versatile and well-rounded professional. Her background in accounting provides a strong foundation in financial management within the industry. Additionally, Paula holds a certification in ServSafe, demonstrating her commitment to upholding high standards of food safety and sanitation.

With her wealth of knowledge and diverse skill set, Paula is well-equipped to handle the challenges and demands of the hospitality industry. Her expertise in hotel operations makes her a valuable asset.

In her spare time, Paula finds solace and joy in her 450-acre family farm. This expansive piece of land allows her to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the countryside. In addition to her love of the farm, Paula has a deep affinity for hunting and fishing. These outdoor activities provide a sense of adventure and relaxation, allowing her to unwind and recharge.

Task Force Sales Manager

Tracy Cavazos

Tracy Cavazos has been in the hospitality industry since 1999. Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, but resides in Round Rock, Texas. Tracy began her career as a catering sales assistant with Omni Hotels. There, she learned the importance of providing excellent customer service! She has experience working with several brands, such as IHG, Choice, Marriott, and Hilton.

Tracy also worked at the Corpus Christi CVB for 8 years. There she gained experience by being willing to learn and work in several different capacities – one of those being special events! Tracy organized elaborate events from start to finish. 

Now she has joined ARK Hospitality as a Task Force Sales Manager.

Tracy is a proud mother of three with a fur baby named Toby. In her spare time, Tracy enjoys gardening, thrifting, traveling within Texas, and attending concerts.