Good Strategy, Great Execution: A Hospitality Leader’s Playbook

Host: Cindy HookGuest: Chris Kehn - Principal, KH HospitalitySummaryCindy sits down with second-generation hotelier Chris Kehn to trace his path from ROTC/Army discipline to hands-on leadership across independent hotels and resorts. Drawing on early lessons at the Hawthorne Hotel and years of owner-side advisory work, Chris explains why execution; not just planning, creates results, how a tough setback taught him more than a string of wins, and what it really takes to build teams, protect culture, and keep standards when the pressures on.What you’ll learnWhy independent properties can be the fastest classroom for owners and operatorsThe operating cadence that turns strategy into outcomes, consistentlyHiring for attitude and fit (and when to make the hard call to protect culture)How to stay even-keeled and decisive through uncertaintyThe difference owner education makes in project successNotable quote“I’ve seen average plans win with great execution, and great plans fail without it.”Guest bio (short)Chris Kehn is a hospitality operator and advisor who has led teams across independent hotels and resorts, helping owners align strategy, people, and process to deliver sustained performance.