June 6, 2012 (Chicago) - The Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel has announced the appointment of Kim Corrigan as General Manager. Drawing on three decades of hospitality experience - including a noteworthy turn at The Curtis in Denver - Corrigan will oversee on-property management, operations, and sales and marketing initiatives at The Blackstone, a Beaux-Arts architectural landmark in the heart of Chicago's South Loop arts and theater district.

Corrigan arrived at The Blackstone from The Curtis, which she joined in 2008 as General Manager, or "Queen Bee" in the playful style of the hotel. Arriving during challenging economic times for the hospitality industry, Corrigan played a key role as Sage Hospitality soft-branded The Curtis with Doubletree. Hilton recognized her role by including her in the prestigious Circle of Leadership program. She was also named Sage Hospitality's Leader of the Year in 2011.

"We've always placed a priority on attracting talent, and over the past four years Kim has proven herself among the sharpest GMs in the business - whatever the challenges. We're thrilled to have her taking the reins at The Blackstone in Chicago," said Alexandra Walterspiel, Senior Vice President for Sage Hospitality's Premier & Lifestyle Division.

Prior to joining The Curtis, Corrigan spent four years as General Manager of the 206-room, all-suite Embassy Suites Denver Southeast. From 2002-2004, she was owner and operator of The Last Detail, a self-launched, lifestyle management outfit in the Denver suburb of Louisville. Previously, Corrigan held a host of hospitality management positions, from Director of Marketing and Operations at Starwood Vacation Ownership in Denver to Executive Director of Operations at Bally's Grand Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. Her industry experience dates back to 1980 and includes positions at The Tropicana Hotel Casino and the Playboy Hotel & Casino.

Corrigan was active in the local community in Denver, sitting on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Hotel & Lodging Association; serving as Vice President of the 14th Street General Improvement District; and teaching as an Adjunct Professor at Metro State College.

A native of Detroit, Corrigan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Active and focused on the betterment of her community, she has been a volunteer at the Boulder & Denver Shelter for the Homeless, as well as Greenlee Elementary School.

The Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel
The Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel is located in the heart of Chicago's arts and theater district and adjacent to Grant Park. The historic property, which has accommodated 12 U.S. presidents, is a Beaux-Arts architectural landmark offering 332 stylish rooms, among them the fabled Presidential Suite and legendary "Smoke-Filled Room"; the award-winning destination restaurant, Mercat a la Planxa, an original concept by Sage Restaurant Group serving Catalan-inspired cuisine; an extensive collection of contemporary art by emerging artists; a 23rd floor Concierge Lounge with sweeping views of Lake Michigan; and 12,000 square feet of meeting space, including the lavishly restored Crystal Ballroom. Opened in 1910, closed in 1999, and reopened in 2008 following a $128 million showcase restoration by Sage Hospitality, The Blackstone's décor is a dynamic mix of historic architecture and savvy design combined with luxury amenities and thoughtful guest services.
For reservations: 1 888-236-2427; http://www.blackstonerenaissance.com

About Sage Hospitality
Founded in 1984, Sage Hospitality has strategically grown into one of the largest privately held hotel management and ownership companies in the nation operating a variety of large, full-service hotels as well as extended stay and select-service properties. Sage Hospitality's comprehensive portfolio includes major international brands such as Marriott, Sheraton, Renaissance, Hilton and Westin, and as well as independent boutique hotels. Sage Hospitality has further differentiated with the creation of the Sage Restaurant Group, which has created and is managing 10 unique restaurant concepts including the acclaimed Mercat a la Planxa in Chicago.

For more information, please visit http://www.sagehospitality.com/.