PHOENIX (December 7, 2017) – Best Western Hotels & Resorts today announced that its Board of Directors has elected Jim Cosgrove as Board Chairman for 2018. Cosgrove brings deep industry knowledge and experience to his new position, as he is a second-generation Best Western-branded hotel owner and has served in several leadership roles throughout his time with the company. His upbringing in hospitality, combined with his extensive involvement in the brand, will be instrumental in continuing Best Western’s momentum and paving the way for another groundbreaking year.

“I am pleased to announce Mr. Cosgrove as our new Board Chairman as he is an integral leader and visionary for our brand,” said Best Western Hotels & Resorts President and CEO David Kong. “He understands the DNA of Best Western, and I am confident that his commitment to our hotel owners and passion for Best Western’s future will bring unprecedented success in 2018.”

Cosgrove was elected to Best Western’s Board of Directors in 2011 to represent the interests of Best Western hotel owners in 20 states and provinces in the eastern United States and Canada, from Newfoundland south to Virginia. In addition to serving as a Board Director, Cosgrove served as Board Vice-Chairman in 2017 and Secretary-Treasurer in 2016. Cosgrove also served as a brand Governor for 11 years, was chair of Best Western’s New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania marketing co-op, and sat on the board of the brand’s global marketing group.

“I’m honored to be elected and serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for Best Western Hotels & Resorts,” said Cosgrove. “Best Western has grown and evolved significantly in recent years, and I’m excited to build upon our accomplishments in the year ahead, further enhancing our guest experience and continuing our reign as an innovative and trusted leader in hospitality.”

Cosgrove, a LaSalle University graduate, began his career in hospitality at an early age, as he and his family have owned and operated the award-winning Best Western Plus Revere Inn & Suites in Paradise, Pennsylvania for over 40 years. His family also owns and operates the adjacent Revere Tavern. Built in the 1700s, the former stagecoach stop was previously owned by President Buchanan.

Cosgrove is known for not just setting high standards for his hotels, but consistently exceeding them. His property the Best Western Plus Revere Inn & Suites has won 29 brand awards, including 11 Director Awards, four Chairman awards, and Best Western’s most prestigious recognition – the M.K. Guertin award, named after the founder of the brand.

With Cosgrove’s ambition and track record of delivering exceptional results, 2018 is gearing up to be another remarkable year for the powerhouse brand.