Richard Sandoval In a recent conversation with CoStar News’ Natalie Harms, Spire CEO Richard Sandoval talked about his first 90 days as CEO, the launch of Spire’s new Strategic Asset Performance division, and what AI means for hotel operations. His main point: AI should create efficiency, but the goal is to give hospitality back its human side.
“AI and automation is going to create efficiency. It’s going to create flow through, but we’ve got to rediscover hospitality in that process,” Richard said. The aim is to get teams back in front of guests and employees, because, as he put it, “it always comes back down to the people.”
He was equally clear that results are the proof. Many owners won’t believe it until they see it on the P&L, and the real test of any AI investment is whether it drives NOI, not whether a P&L can be produced in five days instead of ten. Spire is moving quickly, expects some missteps along the way, and believes the risk of being left behind is far greater.
Richard also shared what’s ahead for Spire, including the new Strategic Asset Performance division led by Shozib Khan, the addition of Nancy Johns as SVP of Commercial Strategy, and the opening of the St. James Hotel in Selma, Alabama, a historic property in the Series by Marriott brand. He also spoke about the partnership and longevity of Spire’s team, which he wants to keep as the company evolves.
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