Erik Palmer

Vice President of Operations, Hotel & Resort Hospitality

With more than 28 years in the hospitality industry, Erik brings a deep passion for thoughtful service, and wonderful food & beverage experiences, grounded in hands-on restaurant and event management, and shaped by a Hotel Management degree from the University of Delaware.

Erik spent 20 years with Marriott International, where he opened multiple hotels and led operations across select-service, full-service, resort, lifestyle, and luxury properties to include the New York Marriott Marquis, JW Marriott-LA Live and the Newport Beach Hotel & Spa.  Erik also guided operations at Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, a property with more than 3,000 team members, 22 restaurants, and extensive meeting and event space, helping it earn Gaylord Hotel of the Year honors. Following his time at Marriott, Erik served as Managing Director for MCR Hotels, overseeing the opening of the iconic TWA Hotel at JFK.

Most recently he served as Vice President of Operations at Highgate, overseeing eight hotels in New York City and driving operational performance, owner relations, and strategic growth.

Known for a people-first leadership style and a talent for translating strategy into exceptional guest experiences and measurable results, Erik is also an avid cook who enjoys golf, fitness, and family time.