Profile

How we conduct business is as important as the results we achieve. We incorporate our Mission and Values into every aspect of our company our strategies & planning, our analysis & decision making, our growth & development and how we evaluate & reward our employees. Our Mission and Values reflect what we are doing as a hospitality business as well as how we do it.

Our Mission is to own and develop hotels and resorts that provide superior customer service and exceptional hospitality across the United States while maximizing our profit margin.

We Value our hospitality. It is who we are and what makes us outstanding in our success. We believe in top service by listening to and understanding our guests, guest preferences, employees and member investors. We believe in operating with trust, integrity and respect.

Our Team

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Luke Lester - Partner & CEO

Luke Lester's journey in hospitality began from the ground floor, starting as a bellman at a hotel in Rapid City, South Dakota. This hands-on experience in various operational roles within the hotel industry has shaped his leadership approach, bringing a practical and grassroots perspective to the table.

Under Luke's guidance, Lester Hospitality has evolved into a well-diversified organization, expanding its interests beyond hospitality. The company now holds investments in various businesses and industries.

Luke Lester holds a business degree from MSU-Bozeman, bringing a strong educational foundation to his role as CEO. Outside of his professional pursuits, Luke enjoys leisure activities such as golf, mountain biking, skiing, and hiking, often spending quality time with his family. He and his wife, Jenny, are dedicated to homeschooling their children and share a passion for international travel.

Lester Hospitality is committed to making a positive impact in the community as well. Luke serves as a board member at the Club for Boys, actively contributing to the betterment of the local community.

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Rocky Lester - Partner & CFO

Rocky Lester is a highly accomplished professional who plays a critical role in the Company's operations. With a broad range of responsibilities, he spearheads finance, accounting, insurance, risk management, human resources, information technology, budgeting, capital expenditures, forecasting, strategic planning, audits, bonus plans, and administrative functions.

Working directly alongside the Chief Executive Officer, Rocky is instrumental in sourcing and evaluating strategic corporate investments. His keen eye for opportunities and meticulous analysis ensure that the Company makes well-informed decisions to drive growth and profitability.

An advocate for sustainability, Rocky takes charge of evaluating energy efficiency retrofits in existing properties. He identifies areas for improvement, implementing sustainable design elements and pursuing incentive opportunities. By integrating eco-friendly practices, he contributes to reducing the Company's environmental footprint while optimizing operational efficiency.

Rocky's dedication to maintaining strong relationships extends beyond sustainable initiatives. He actively nurtures partnerships with banks, vendors, and franchise stakeholders. These collaborative efforts not only strengthen the Company's network but also foster mutually beneficial arrangements that facilitate smooth operations and contribute to long-term success.

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Scott Garrett - VP of Operations

Scott Garrett brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the hospitality industry, boasting over 25 years of leadership experience. In his current role as Vice President of Operations at Lester Hospitality, Scott holds a key position overseeing Hotel Operations for all hotels and resorts operated by the company. Additionally, he actively contributes to Project Management and Business Development/Acquisition initiatives.

Before joining Lester Hospitality, Scott held the esteemed position of Director of Hotel Operations for Vail Resorts/Grand Teton Lodge Company. In this capacity, he successfully managed multiple properties within the National Park, showcasing his exceptional skills in ensuring operational excellence and guest satisfaction. Prior to that, Scott served as Enterprise Operations Director for Acoma Business Enterprises, where he provided oversight for a diverse portfolio including casinos, hotels, travel centers, and retail locations.

Scott's qualifications extend beyond his extensive industry experience. He is a Certified Hotel Administrator, demonstrating his proficiency and comprehensive understanding of the hospitality field. Additionally, he holds an MBA from the esteemed Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of New Mexico, showcasing his commitment to continuous professional development and expanding his knowledge base.

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