Best Western International has named industry veteran Roy Olsson managing director of International Development, a move which reflects the company’s dedication to worldwide expansion. In his new position, Olsson will be responsible for overseeing the addition of new hotels to the brand’s growing portfolio of hotels worldwide with his most immediate attention focusing on development in Asia.

“We are very pleased Roy will bring his proven record of success in development and management to our team,” says Suzi MacDonald, vice president of International Operations. “His experience in the Asian market, in particular, will also be a great asset for Best Western.”

Olsson brings nearly 30 years of industry experience to his new position. His career began at the Excelsior Hotel in Hong Kong, where Olsson worked in various property-level management positions. In 1976, Olsson joined the Sheraton Corporation where he held various management and corporate positions, serving finally as the regional director of development in Hong Kong in 1988. In this position, Olsson was responsible for the development of Sheraton hotels in Asia as well as analysis of financial projections, feasibility studies and site evaluations.

From 1988-1996, Olsson held executive positions at Sino Group, Omni Hotels, Accor and Hotel Properties Limited where he focused on expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. In 1996, Olsson was named executive director and chief operating officer of Furama Hotels and Resorts International in Hong Kong, where he led a total re-branding and corporate identity campaign. As executive director, Olsson was responsible for overall operations at the hotels, focusing on conformance to corporate policies, standards and procedures to maximize profitability.

“I’m excited about the opportunities at Best Western,” said Olsson. “The diversity and size of the Best Western brand allows for amazing growth and development potential.”

Olsson received his Bachelor of Science degree from the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration in 1971 and his CHA in 1987.

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