"It is with great pleasure that I announce the promotion of Ellen Ruane-Johnson to the position of general manager for The Founders Inn," said Ms. Sinclair.  "She brings infectious energy, extraordinary dedication and commitment for success to her new role.  We congratulate her on this well deserved appointment!"

Ms. Ruane-Johnson was previously director of operations for North Maple Inn, Benchmark's Four Diamond property located in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.  She has also served as director of rooms for the award-winning property.  In both capacities she was instrumental in North Maple Inn's repositioning from a private conference center to a fully open-market hotel.  During her tenure, the hotel was named, for two consecutive years, as "One of the 50 Best Places to Work in New Jersey" by NJ BIZ, the statewide business newspaper.

In addition to her operations responsibilities, Ms. Ruane-Johnson served as Lead Field Staff Support for Rooms, coordinating task force resources and supporting properties throughout Benchmark's portfolio.  She has participated in the transition of several properties and most recently assumed the responsibility as acting general manager for Montauk Yacht Club & Marina, located in Montauk, Long Island, New York.

Ruane-Johnson was director of rooms for Benchmark when the company managed and rebranded The Forrestal at Princeton, a signature property located in Princeton, New Jersey.  Prior to joining the Benchmark organization, she was assistant general manager for Holiday Inn of Secaucus, New Jersey.  She began her hospitality career at the Radisson Hotel & Suites of Fairfield, New Jersey, assuming positions of increasing responsibility, including assistant general manager. 

Ellen Ruane-Johnson received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Montclair State University, located in Montclair, New Jersey.  She and her family are relocating to Virginia Beach.

Boasting old-world charm accented by beautiful furnishings and antiques, The Founders Inn provides the appeal and warmth of a country inn with fine amenities and award-winning cuisine.  The Inn's 240 guestrooms and suites include wireless Internet access, generous workspace and views of 26 landscaped acres.  Select rooms include gas fireplaces, and views of the lake and English gardens.  The Founders Inn is located at 5641 Indian River Road in Virginia Beach near exit 286B of I-264 East.  For reservations and additional information, please call 800-926-4466 or visit www.foundersinn.com.  Benchmark Hospitality International manages The Founders Inn.

Benchmark Hospitality International, an independent hospitality management company based in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, operates resorts, conference centers and hotels both domestically and internationally.  For locations of Benchmark Hospitality properties and for additional information, visit Benchmark's Website at www.benchmarkhospitality.com. 

Benchmark Hospitality International
The Woodlands (Houston), Texas
www.benchmarkhospitality.com

Ken Ellens
Ken Ellens Communications 
201-758-2864 / 201-758-2865-Fax
[email protected]