Hilton has appointed Matthew Sparks to lead the North American luxury and corporate development team.

Sparks steps into the role with extensive experience in hospitality, real estate and development. He will be responsible for growing Hilton Worldwide’s luxury brands, including Conrad and Waldorf Astoria, across North America and broadening the company’s overall brand presence across key markets.

Bill Fortier, senior vice president, development for the Americas, Hilton Worldwide, said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Matt to the team as we continue to expand our luxury brands. His deep industry experience, knowledge of the market and specific luxury segment expertise will no doubt bring invaluable perspective that will help us to deliver on our strategic growth goals.”

Sparks comes to Hilton Worldwide from Denver-based Sage Hospitality Resources, where he was senior vice president of acquisitions. Previously, he held senior development roles at Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, Wyndham Worldwide, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Over the course of his career, Sparks has focused on major development and acquisition projects both domestically and internationally across the Americas and Asia Pacific regions.

“It’s exciting to join Hilton Worldwide at this important point in the company’s history, as it continues to expand globally and strengthen its position in the luxury market,” said Sparks. “I’m looking forward to working with the company’s seasoned development team to help to grow our luxury brand presence across North America and in key global markets.”

Hilton was recently named Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Brand by the World Travel Awards. In 2011 it has been nominated for 12 World Travel Awards, including World’s Leading Leading Business Hotel Group and World’s Leading Hotel Brand.