Mr. Ratchford brings over 25 years of hospitality experience to his position at the Five Diamond property. As general manager, he will lead a team of 476 ladies and gentlemen and oversee the day-to-day operations of the oceanfront golf and spa resort. 

"Mr. Ratchford's background is the ideal match for Half Moon Bay," says Mr. Cooper. "He has led luxury hotels and resorts, many set along the California coast, he has an immense knowledge and love of golf, and is a longtime Northern California resident. Under his leadership, we are confident that the property will become the finest resort in California." 

"After a hiatus from The Ritz-Carlton Company, I am thrilled to return and embark on this exciting opportunity," says Mr. Ratchford. "This is one of the most spectacular properties I have encountered and I am anxious to begin my journey here and join the Half Moon Bay community,'' he adds.

Prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, Mr. Ratchford served as managing director at The Argent Hotel in San Francisco for three years, and as general manager of the Tenaya Lodge in Yosemite, California for seven years. 

His background in the hospitality industry includes serving as vice president of resort operations at the Pebble Beach Company, where his responsibilities included acting as general manager for the Lodge at Pebble Beach and the Inn at Spanish Bay. Prior, he served in senior leadership roles at The Ritz-Carlton, where he opened several flagship properties, including Laguna Nigel, Buckhead and Naples.

A Georgia native, Mr. Ratchford received a Bachelor of Arts in advertising and public relations from University of Georgia in 1977. Mr. Ratchford, his wife and family will reside in Half Moon Bay. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and traveling.

Set atop a majestic ocean bluff overlooking the rugged Pacific coastline, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a 261-room oceanfront golf and spa resort. The property is located a mere 30 miles south of San Francisco and was inspired by the grand seaside lodges of the 19th century. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay opened spring 2001 and recently earned the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award.