IRVINE, CALIF. – KSL Resorts has promoted Chris Riccardi to senior vice president, global sales strategy. Previously a senior vice president of global sales for Outrigger Hospitality Group, he will now work from the company’s corporate offices to lead the global sales teams, overseeing all strategic sales efforts for KSL Resorts’ growing portfolio of world class destinations.
According to Kristie Goshow, chief commercial officer of KSL Resorts – which stewards and manages destination resorts, hotels and clubs throughout the world – Riccardi will provide strategic sales direction across all lines of business, working closely with property based commercial executives as well as integrating new properties, such as the recently acquired Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, into the company’s expanding portfolio.
“Chris is a proven sales strategist who has played a key role in leading global sales efforts while positioning our Outrigger Hospitality Group as a premier beach resort brand,” Goshow said. “With an inherent ability to build winning teams, orchestrate innovative sales strategies and foster cohesive trade partnerships, Chris will elevate our sales prowess in new and unique ways as we respond to growing global demand and prepare for future expansion.”
Additionally, Riccardi’s promotion is part of KSL Resorts’ internal growth initiative, Goshow said. “We are thrilled to promote Chris from within our talented ranks as part of our carefully crafted internal succession plan enabling him to apply his considerable skills to our corporate growth and strategic plan.”
Riccardi is a seasoned hospitality industry executive with three decades of industry experience. Prior to joining Outrigger, Riccardi was executive vice president of Associated Luxury Hotels International – the leading independent global sales organization serving the North American and European meetings and incentive marketplace – a position he held for 15 years. He was also director of sales for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and senior sales manager for Renaissance Hotels.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Clemson University and a master’s degree in hotel restaurant tourism administration from the University of South Carolina.