ZACK GHARIB IS the new president of Red Roof Inn, assuming the position vacated by George Limbert 10 months ago. Previously, he served as senior vice president of operations for Highgate Hospitality Investment & Management Co.
The company also announced that Fouad Malouf is now chief operating officer, moving into the newly created position from his previous role of senior vice president of franchise operations. He will oversee the company’s day-to-day operations.
Gharib also held senior management positions in franchising, operations and brand management with Marriott International, Vacasa Vacation Homes and Rentals and LaQuinta by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Malouf joined the company in 1982.
“We are happy to welcome Zack Gharib as Red Roof’s new president, an appointment that we are confident will take the brand and its franchise partners to new heights. Zack brings a laser focus on growth and operations excellence to his new role and has demonstrated his ability to deliver transformative results for some of the most widely regarded brands in the hotel industry,” said Mohamed Thowfeek, member of the Red Roof board of directors and the company’s interim president. “We look forward to Zack’s immediate positive impact on Red Roof and its franchisees, and also congratulate Fouad Malouf on his promotion to chief operating officer. Fouad brings unmatched knowledge and experience with the Red Roof brand and franchise community and will work closely with Zack to accelerate the company’s growth and franchising excellence in the months ahead.”
Gharib is relocating to Columbus, Ohio, and will operate out of Red Roof’s corporate headquarters there.
“I am deeply honored and excited to be joining Red Roof as its president at this dynamic and promising moment in the company’s development,” Gharib said. “I am passionate about helping owners, franchisees and team members achieve their fullest potential, deliver exceptional guest service, and achieve operational excellence – which I hope will be instrumental in driving Red Roof’s continued growth and success. I look forward to developing a program of focused action and results that will help drive this venerable brand’s growth and transformation for many years to come.”
AAHOA issued a statement congratulating Gharib and Malouf.
“AAHOA extends its sincerest congratulations to Zack on being named president of our longtime partner Red Roof,” said Miraj Patel, AAHOA chairman. “AAHOA members own some 93 percent of Red Roof properties, and we look forward to continuing our longstanding relationship with the brand under Zack’s leadership.”
“AAHOA welcomes Zack and Fouad to their new roles,” said Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA president and CEO. “With Zach’s franchising, operations, and brand-management expertise, and Fouad’s 40-plus years of experience, we know the future is bright for Red Roof and its franchisees under its new leadership team.”
Limbert left the company last June after he accepted an executive position outside of the hospitality industry to explore new interests, Red Roof said in a statement at that time.
