 PHOENIX,
Dec. 6, 2005 - Best Western International today announced that Raymond
Johnston, owner of the Best Western Las Brisas in Palm Springs, has been
named Chairman of the Best Western board of directors.
"As a Best Western hotelier and a member of our board, Ray has demonstrated
time and again his dedication to this organization," said Larry McRae,
board member and outgoing Chairman of Best Western International. "With
Ray at the helm, I know this board is in good hands. Best Western
is celebrating 60 years in business next year and I'm confident that he
will lead us successfully into the next 60."
Johnston was elected to the Best Western board of directors in 2003
to represent Best Western hoteliers in California, Nevada and Hawaii, and
was named Vice Chairman of the board in January 2005.
"It is a tremendous honor to serve as Chairman of this organization,"
said Johnston. "Together with the other board directors, I am determined
to keep the Best Western brand moving forward."
Prior to joining the Best Western family in 1993, Johnston enjoyed
a distinguished international hotel career with several major hotel chains.
For Westin Hotels, he was part of the opening team for the landmark Century
Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles and later the Camino Reals of Mexico.
At Princess International Hotels, he helped oversee the opening of the
Acapulco Princess Hotel and Golf Resort. Additionally, Johnston has
opened properties for Americana Hotels International in Aruba and Holiday
Inns of Mexico.
In addition to his hospitality industry experience, Johnston has held
key executive positions at Fortune 500 companies including President of
Campbell Soup Company's restaurant division and President of Yellowstone
Park Company.
Johnston is a graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. degree
in hotel, restaurant and institutional management and holds a B.S. degree
in business administration from Oregon State University.
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN(R) with
more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries and territories. It is a membership
association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing,
reservations and operational support to its members.
|
