The U.S. Luxury Hotel and Resort Pipeline and Leadership Development & Anticipated Luxury General Manager Job Openings in the United States as of May 31, 2025

EDITOR
2 days ago
6 min read

As of today, the U.S. luxury hospitality sector is still navigating a complex landscape marked by robust development activity, shifting consumer expectations, and an industry-wide focus on cultivating the next generation of leaders. Below is an in-depth analysis of the current state of the luxury hotel and resort pipeline, along with the critical role of leadership development in sustaining growth and innovation.

Luxury Hotel and Resort Development Pipeline in 2025

The U.S. luxury hotel and resort pipeline as of 31 May 2025 reflects a mix of urban revitalization, expansion into emerging destinations, and adaptive reuse projects. Major brands such as Aman, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and Rosewood are leading the charge, with a notable emphasis on blending ultra-luxury with sustainability and exclusivity.

In urban markets, cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles continue to attract high-profile developments. Aman’s highly anticipated Aman New York Midtown is set to open in late 2025, featuring a blend of urban sophistication and the brand’s signature tranquility. Similarly, Six Senses Los Angeles is under development, targeting wellness-focused luxury travelers with its holistic approach to hospitality.

Meanwhile, secondary and tertiary markets are experiencing a surge in luxury resort development. Montana’s Auberge Big Sky Resort and Wyoming’s Aman at Brush Creek Ranch cater to affluent travelers seeking secluded, nature-immersive experiences. Coastal destinations like Four Seasons Portland in Maine are also gaining traction, offering a blend of New England charm and modern luxury.

Adaptive reuse projects remain a key trend, with historic buildings being transformed into high-end hotels. For example, The Vineta Hotel in Palm Springs, a conversion of a 1920s bank, is set to debut in early 2026, combining vintage aesthetics with contemporary luxury.

However, the pipeline is not without challenges. Rising construction costs, labor shortages, and stricter sustainability regulations have led to delays in some projects. Additionally, markets like Austin and Scottsdale risk oversaturation as multiple luxury brands compete for the same high-end clientele.

Leadership Development in Luxury Hospitality

The rapid evolution of the luxury hospitality industry has placed leadership development at the forefront of strategic priorities. With an aging workforce of veteran hoteliers and the increasing complexity of managing high-tech, high-touch guest experiences, brands are investing heavily in grooming the next generation of leaders... Read the whole report here (members only)

Anticipated Luxury General Manager Job Openings in the United States as of May 31, 2025

The U.S. luxury hospitality sector is entering a period of significant leadership transition, with industry analysts projecting 120-150 General Manager vacancies at four- and five-star properties through 2026. This represents approximately 35% of current luxury hotel leadership positions nationwide, creating both challenges and opportunities for the industry's talent pipeline.

A convergence of factors is driving this turnover. Nearly 40% of current luxury GMs are approaching traditional retirement age (55-65 years old), particularly affecting legacy brands that have shaped American luxury hospitality for generations. Simultaneously, the ongoing U.S. luxury hotel boom - with over 200 new properties in development - has created unprecedented demand for experienced leaders capable of launching new flagships and repositioning iconic properties.

The most competitive openings are emerging across several key segments. New ultra-luxury urban developments like the Aman New York Midtown and Six Senses Los Angeles are seeking visionary operators to establish their market presence. Recently renovated historic properties such as The Plaza New York and Beverly Hills Hotel require GMs who can honor legacy while driving innovation. Resort destinations including Auberge Big Sky in Montana and the forthcoming Four Seasons Private Residences in Napa Valley represent additional high-profile opportunities.

Compensation packages have escalated dramatically in response to market pressures. Average base salaries for luxury GMs now range from $220,000 to $300,000 annually, representing a 25% increase since 2022. Premium properties are offering per ... Read the whole article with specific anticipated leads here ( Premium Members Access Only) / Upgrade to Premium Membership here