Mr & Mrs Smith Co-Founder Tamara Lohan will step up as Hyatt’s Global Brand Leader – Luxury on an interim basis as the hospitality giant kicks off the “next chapter” of its luxury strategy.
The announcement was made at ILTM Cannes, alongside a preview of its pipeline of openings for 2026.
“Hyatt’s momentum in luxury continues to accelerate, powered by our insights-driven development strategy and commitment to delivering deeply resonant guest experiences,” said Mark Hoplamazian, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hyatt.
“Tamara brings world-class luxury expertise, and her leadership will further strengthen our ability to differentiate our luxury brands while growing with intent in the markets our guests and owners value most.”
Lohan, who joined Hyatt in 2023 through its acquisition of Mr & Mrs Smith, is recognised for her expertise in curating independent, design-led properties. In her new role, she will help guide Hyatt’s global luxury brand strategy and work to elevate brand consistency and guest experience across the company’s expanding portfolio.
“When Hyatt acquired Mr & Mrs Smith, it was clear how deeply Hyatt respects independent spirit, design integrity and the craft of luxury,” Lohan said. “It’s a privilege to help shape the future of what luxury means for Hyatt, and I’m excited to develop the brands in our portfolio and take our guests on even more personal experiences whilst thoughtfully growing the collection.”
Hyatt currently operates nearly 125 luxury hotels totaling more than 21,000 rooms worldwide across brands including Park Hyatt, Alila, Miraval, Impression by Secrets and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
That footprint is expected to grow significantly in 2026, with the opening of Miraval The Red Sea – the wellness brand’s first resort outside the US. Located on Saudi Arabia’s Shura Island, the adults-only retreat will feature 180 guestrooms and suites, immersive wellbeing programming and what Hyatt describes as the Red Sea destination’s largest spa.
The Miraval expansion comes amid rising demand for highly personalised travel experiences, with the company noting that nearly half of travellers now define luxury in those terms.
“This winter marks a defining moment in Hyatt’s luxury growth story,” said Marc Jacheet, Group President, EAME, Hyatt, highlighting Miraval’s international debut and the brand’s broader expansion across the region.
Additional developments include the reopening of Park Hyatt Tokyo and new Park Hyatt properties in Cabo del Sol, Cancun, Mexico City, Vancouver and Phu Quoc; the debut of Alila Mayakoba in Mexico; and two new European openings for The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
