Aug. 2, 2004 - Hyatt Hotels Corp. has hired Daniel Amato as general manager of the Grand Hyatt Washington.

Mr. Amato is responsible for overseeing all operations including marketing, sales, finances and employee relations for the 18-year-old, 900-room downtown hotel and convention center.

"That particular property is one of the shining stars of our entire portfolio," said Victor Lopez, divisional vice president for Hyatt Hotels and Resorts.

"We realized the importance of having key people in key spots. Dan is one of the truly outstanding managers we have in our organization."

Mr. Amato looks forward to helping the hotel grow and become more successful.

"I can tell you that we are always concerned about quality and giving the best quality product that we can offer to the public," Mr. Amato said. "That will be a very high priority for me to maintain the success that they've had here at the hotel for the last 18 years."

He also wants to get involved in the corporate community. Although he has been on the job for only three weeks, Mr. Amato expects to form relationships with companies and organizations.

"After being on board here for some time, I'll become more involved in the community with the different organizations that are important for the success of the hotel," Mr. Amato said.

Mr. Amato has worked for Hyatt in various positions for 28 years.

The choice to hire him as general manager of the Washington hotel, Mr. Lopez said, was based largely on his extensive experience.

Mr. Lopez wants to see Mr. Amato continue where the last manager left off by making improvements and maintaining the highest service standards.

"We have some big goals in from of Dan Amato, and I'm sure that he will rise to the occasion," Mr. Lopez said.

Mr. Amato is an East Coast native who enjoys living in Washington because it puts him close to friends and family. Mr. Amato also enjoys relaxing with his wife, playing golf and going to the spa.

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