MINNEAPOLIS, April 7, 2010 - Carlson Hotels today announced that Philip Silberstein, a 16-year veteran of the company, has returned as executive vice president, Full Service Development, The Americas.  Silberstein will oversee the growth of full-service franchise and management contracts in the Americas.  His primary focus will be on growth of the Radisson brand.

"We are thrilled to welcome back Phil.  His track record of success, experience and prior knowledge of Carlson and its brands will play a critical role in support of Carlson Hotels' global growth strategy Ambition 2015," said Thorsten Kirschke, executive vice president and chief operating officer, The Americas.

Carlson Hotels' Ambition 2015 plan is to grow the portfolio by more than 50 percent over the next five years.  The plan was recently announced at the company's global business conference and includes an investment program of up to USD 1.5 billion investment over the next five years to reposition and elevate the Radisson brand in the Americas and deploy global best practices.

A 34-year veteran within the hotel industry, prior to rejoining Carlson, Silberstein served as Executive Vice President of Development for the Sonesta Collection where he successfully launched the company's domestic franchise program.  In his previous role at Carlson Hotels, Silberstein was vice president of development and responsible for the expansion of the Radisson brand in the Northeast and Midwest within the U.S.  For his outstanding work, Silberstein was made a Carlson Fellow in 2004, the company's prestigious lifetime achievement award.

"I am extremely excited to return to Carlson and help lead the development initiative for Carlson Hotels during this exciting time in the company's history," said Silberstein.

Silberstein will be based in Boston, Mass. and reports to Robert Kleinschmidt, chief development officer, The Americas.

About Carlson Hotels
Carlson Hotels is a leading global hotel company with more than 1,060 locations in 77 countries. Its brands include: Radisson®, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson(SM), Park Inn®, Park Plaza® and Regent®.  Carlson Hotels is part of Carlson, a global hospitality and travel company.  For more information, please visit www.carlsonhotels.com.