(Houston, TX; November 24, 2015)The DoubleTree Hotel & Suites Houston by Galleria (5353 Westheimer Road) is pleased to announce the appointment of James J. Ficalora as its Director of Sales and Marketing, effective immediately. A 23-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Ficalora will oversee all sales, marketing and e-commerce efforts for the soon-to-be 476 room property.

Prior to joining the hotel, he worked with internationally renowned brands, such as Hilton, Westin, and Marriott. Most recently, he served as the National Director of Sales for GF Management in Philadelphia. During his tenure there, he mentored 12 sales directors and was responsible for implementing many of the company’s standards for its portfolio.

“Jim is a proven sales leader. He’s well known within the Houston community for delivering nothing but excellence to colleagues and guests,” says Phil Tufano, Chief Operating Officer at Kokua Hospitality, the hotel’s management firm. “We are excited to have him in this role where he will work with the amazing staff to continue enriching the spectacular guest experiences as the hotel evolves.”

The hotel welcomes guests to book reservations via its website. www.houstonsuites.doubletree.com. Sales and additional information is also available by calling 713.961.9000.