Ron Pohl - President, International Operations and WorldHotels, BWH Hotels Group

What are you most proud of?
My family. My wife Carol and our three children. We are empty nesters, however, we truly enjoy time together nearly every weekend.

What do you like to do outside of work?
I am an avid golfer, and I enjoy exercise, specifically triathlons. I am currently training for my first half ironman.

What are your goals?
To grow our BWH Hotel Group brands throughout the international community and to build WorldHotels into one of the most desired and successful brands in the upper-upscale segment.

Do you anticipate staying in the hotel industry for the rest of your career?
I have been in the industry for 40 years. It is definitely where I will stay.

What keeps you up at night?
Excitement for the industry and the success of WorldHotels. I am constantly thinking of our opportunity to be one of the best brands in the world.

What experience, personal or professional, has shaped you the most as a leader?
I come from a Midwest blue collar family that taught me to be honest and respectful, surround yourself with good people, work hard, read the bible and continue to learn. I try to do this every day.

What do you bring to or offer the hotel industry?
I began my hotel career working at the front desk of a Marriott hotel while attending college and have never left the industry. I have worked nearly every job in hospitality, including revenue management, F & B, serving as Marriott GM at several hotels, regional vice president, COO for Best Western and President of WorldHotels. It is truly a business I enjoy and love.