SPEAKERS

Wayne West III serves as the President and part owner of Newport Hospitality Group, where he oversees the company's diverse hotel portfolio to ensure each property achieves its maximum potential. As a co-owner of several hotels within the portfolio, Wayne brings a unique, vested perspective that drives operational excellence and strategic growth. With over 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Wayne is adept at driving guest loyalty, enhancing associate engagement, and ensuring exceptional revenue performance and profitability. His hands-on management style fosters individual growth through collaborative thinking and teamwork, enabling both employees and the organization to thrive.

Wayne's career in hospitality began with entry-level positions across various facets of hotel operations. His dedication and expertise led him to several general manager roles before advancing to Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer, ultimately culminating in his role as President. Throughout his career, Wayne has managed properties nationwide, gaining a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to leadership that allows him to excel in all hotel disciplines.

A proud alumnus of East Carolina University, Wayne is a certified hotel administrator accredited by the American Hotel & Lodging Association. His extensive experience includes operating, supervising, and owning assets within the IHG, Marriott, and Hilton systems, as well as managing boutique hotels. Wayne has been an active member of the Owners Council with Marriott and has served on IHG’s Food & Beverage, Operations, and Standards Committees. Notably, he held the position of Chairman of the IHG Owners Association from 2020 to 2021.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry, Wayne West III was honored with the Kemmons Wilson Award at the IHG Americas Conference in 2022. This accolade underscores Wayne's commitment to excellence and his influential role within the industry. Wayne attributes much of his success to the guidance and support of his mentors, whom he honors by embodying their teachings and striving to mentor others in turn. He aspires to continue this tradition of mentorship, ensuring that future leaders in hospitality receive the same invaluable guidance that he did.

Wayne is also a published thought leader in the hospitality sector. His recent article, "Navigating Uncharted Waters (Link to Article)," explores innovative strategies for leading through change. Additionally, Wayne played a pivotal role in the recent development of the Newport team (Link to Press Release) announcing Newport Hospitality Group's latest internal expansion, demonstrating his strategic vision and leadership.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Wayne is an avid reader with a keen interest in all things related to the hospitality industry, continuously seeking to expand his knowledge and stay abreast of industry trends. He loves spending time on the water boating with his wife, Marianne, of over 40 years, in their picturesque lakeside town in North Carolina. Their community, characterized by its absence of traffic lights and abundance of boats over cars, offers a serene retreat where they enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living. Wayne and Marianne are also the proud owners of Fred, their beloved dog who found his way into their lives, adding joy and companionship to their home. Additionally, Wayne is a devoted father to two adult sons, who continue to inspire him both personally and professionally.

For Wayne and Marianne, this timeless setting is the perfect sanctuary, and they cherish every moment spent there with family and friends.