At Texas Western Hospitality, our success begins with our people. Every team member from the field to the boardroom is united by a commitment to excellence, authenticity, and care. This shared dedication shapes the culture that drives our properties forward and strengthens the partnerships we build. As one of the leading hotel management companies in Texas, we believe it’s our people who truly set us apart.
Founder & Chairman
Favorite part of the job: Interaction with junior associates.
What makes me rest easy: Nothing. Change occurs daily. You must be alert.
I got into this business because: You can change rents every day.
Gene is Founder, Chairman, and proverbial backbone of Western International Realty, L.P. A company that, as Gene puts it, is a family business. And pretty much everyone at WI would agree. No one’s a stranger around here. And it’s not uncommon to see the Carter family dropping by. In fact, his wife Nancy handles all parts of the interior design for the hotels.
Gene first got into commercial real estate development back in 1965. And his experience soon grew to include management and operations areas and, specifically, hospitality.
In 1990, Gene decided to refocus his efforts and expertise exclusively on his first professional love: developing and operating hotel properties. And under Gene’s leadership, Western International has garnered a lot of acclaim: Marriott’s Developer of the Year (1998, 2007), Marriott’s Partnership Circle Award (2001), and WI is consistently one of Marriott’s leading franchisees. And Gene’s done well for himself, too, earning recognition by Hilton Hotels as Developer of the Year (2009).
Gene’s a graduate of Texas A&M University (don’t hold that against him), and he attended law school at the University of Texas and Southern Methodist University. When he’s not working, he’s wishing he were. As Gene puts it, ‘When you love what you do, it’s hard to turn it off
President and CEO
Reason I work at TWH: Entrepreneurship. TWH continuously provides the platform to create value for stakeholders.
Favorite part of the job: Variety. Each asset we create and manage presents its own unique set of challenges and rewards.
Favorite TWH moment: Not a defined point in time, but an ongoing freedom to strive for creative success.
Michael’s worked with Gene for more than 25 years. (Worthy of a medal.) And he’s overseen more than 40 hotel developments since 1995. (Worthy of a display case of medals.) Now in 2012, Michael has been named President and CEO of Western International.
Michael’s one of the main guys who brings a new hotel development to life. He oversees and implements just about everything: Helps associates acquire land and financing. Oversees architects. Works directly with general contractors. Tackles planning and zoning cases. Facilitates governmental and regulatory approvals. Sleeps occasionally.
So if you had a really nice stay at that new Hilton in Chandler, Arizona, give Michael a hearty pat on the back. Then leave him alone. The man has work to do.
Chief Operating Officer
Biggest professional accomplishment: Taking a leap of faith to leave a very large hospitality management company for TWH.
Favorite part of job: Sitting with the big dogs and deciding and implementing strategy for the entire company. No, wait – it’s actually seeing that strategy put into action immediately!
Reason I work at TWH: I enjoy thinking and working in an entrepreneurial environment. That’s really what TWH is all about.
To be a good corporate planner, it doesn’t hurt to have worked with a lot of brands. Over the years, Jim’s worked with Fairfield Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, SpringHill Suites, TownePlace Suites, Residence Inn and Marriott Hotels. The latter at which he held several key management positions in full-service rooms operations.
Jim successfully opened four properties as a general manager. And in 2001, he came to TWH, where he worked his way up from various general manager positions to area general manager for the Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas, markets.
Today, Jim wears a lot of hats (although his head is anything but big). Hotel operations, multibrand analysis of operational results and development and implementation of strategic measures to enhance performance of all hotels in the management portfolio (say that three times fast).
Along the way, Jim’s garnered lots of praise, including earning the Opening Hotel of the Year award (2007) while serving as general manager of the Residence Inn by Marriott in Grapevine, Texas.
When Jim’s not busy at work, he and his wife Jen are busy at home with four kids. Where, at dinnertime, that strategy and planning experience really comes in handy.
EVP of Sales & Marketing
Biggest professional accomplishment: Overseeing/ fostering the growth and development of numerous individuals and teams throughout my career.
Favorite part of the job: I still love going on sales calls. Its always great to see our people in action, and interacting with clients and potential clients is a big part of what drives me.
Reason I work at TWH: The relationships I fostered throughout my career here in the DFW area, helped to make this an easy decision. The integrity and values of the company align with what I was looking for.
Favorite room service item: Wine
The most effective sales team members are those that have a natural inclination towards the task and the ability to cultivate real relationships with the people they interact with. Luckily for us, Kristin Waddill has a knack for that plus the acumen that comes with years of experience in hospitality. Growing up, she enjoyed interacting with others while working towards a goal and the thrill of success that comes with a job well done; the fact that she gravitated towards the hospitality field should come as no big shock. During her time at the University of North Texas, Kristin worked in the restaurant industry which later lead her into a hotel internship as preparation for her entry into our industry while simultaneously solidifying her passion for the craft and sharpening her communication skills.
It’s apparent that the time was well spent as it’s only bolstered her ability to close deals and has helped her oversee the growth and development of numerous individuals and teams on her path to Texas Western Hospitality. That initial spark of inspiration still stays lit like a pilot light as her favorite part of the job remains going on sales calls, interacting with clients, and watching as the teams she works with in action!
When Kristin finds the time to take a break from sales, she enjoys relaxing by the pool and gardening. It’s a true testament to her innate ability to cultivate and her natural inclination to do so. She also loves traveling, skiing and spending time with friends, her husband Jeff, and their two children.
VP of HR/Regional
Director of Operations
VP of Business Analytics
Favorite TWH Colleague: Mike Scaffidi
Biggest Professional Accomplishment: Still working on it!
Favorite TWH Property Stay: TPS Arlington
What I’ve Learned at TWH: Hard work has its rewards
Marco was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley in Donna, Texas, known worldwide for its Ruby Red grapefruit.
He got his start in hospitality as a guest services associate in nearby McAllen, Texas, for Posadas USA. He worked his way up and eventually became GM for the Marriott Residence Inn and then dual GM for their McAllen properties.
Now Marco’s middle name is Polo (that’s right, Marco Polo), and he felt a need to discover something new. So Marco packed his bags and headed east to join Hyatt as a transitional manager for the enterprise region. During his tenure on the East Coast, Marco worked with the opening team that launched the Hyatt Place brand in late 2006.
Let’s just say Marco was happy to finally come home to south Texas to work with TWH. Just ask his wife Leticia. Their happiness includes five great children: daughters Clarissa Lizette, Alena Faith, Nina Celeste, Norah Alyssa and son Marco Polo Coronado III. (Another explorer joins the fold.)
Regional Director of Operations
Biggest professional accomplishment: Assisting in the reopening of 13 Marriott hotels post-Katrina.
Favorite room service item: Eggs benedict and a mimosa
What I’ve learned at TWH: We have a very talented team of associates and all share a passion for the hotel business.
Roger began his career in the hospitality industry with Marriott Hotels over 26 years ago in San Antonio, Texas. Beginning as an hourly associate, he worked his way up to the front office while maintaining his college studies. He’s definitely an over-achiever (but the good kind).
Afterwards, Roger held various management positions at Marriott properties in Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD. Feeling the need to return to Texas, Roger accepted a position with Dallas Marriott Quorum as Director of Services before transitioning to his next role as GM of Springhill Suites in Arlington, TX. However, when the opportunity arose, he accepted the position as GM of the new Convention Center Springhill Suites in New Orleans, LA. One can only assume he got his Texas “fix” and was ready to keep moving. Shortly after Hurricane Katrina, Roger became Dual General Manager of the New Orleans Metairie Courtyard and Residence Inn.
In 2009, Roger joined Texas Western Hospitality as the General Manager of Hilton Waco and in March 2011, he was promoted to the Regional Director of Operations.
Roger is married to his wife Athena and is a proud Dad to twins Austin and Abbie. In his spare time, he enjoys hanging out with his family, playing golf and traveling.
Controller
Biggest professional accomplishment: Mentoring talent across diverse backgrounds and abilities, I have been able to bridge the gap between individual potential and collective achievement. I believe that the strongest teams are built on a foundation of mutual respect, tailored development, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Reason I work at TWH: Joining the TWH team allows me to combine my financial expertise with my passion for mentoring team members.
Favorite room service item: A nice steak and a glass of wine.
Traci has been a CPA in Dallas for over 30 years. She has both public and private experience. She started off her career with a local CPA firm where she learned all about client service. She has worked as the controller for a number of Family Offices and is now excited about working with the hospitality industry. She is a member of the Texas Society of CPAs and Financial Executives International.
Traci and her husband live in Dallas. They enjoy traveling, the theater, fostering those lovable Basset Hounds, and rooting on the Oklahoma Sooners! Their proudest achievement are their 4 children and 3 grandchildren.
Corporate Director of Engineering
Biggest professional accomplishment: Throughout my career, I had the privilege of hiring, training, and promoting numerous Directors, Chief’s, and Engineering Managers. There was an unwritten commitment to fostering talent within the organization to build strong and effective teams that drive success.
Favorite part of the job: It continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. Mentoring and assisting in the development of new engineering leaders. I find great joy in identifying potential leaders and helping them growing their careers. The dynamic nature of my job means that every day brings new challenges and learning experiences, which keeps me motivated and engaged.
Reason I work at TWH: When the opportunity to join TWH was presented, I immediately recognized the unique potential of this partnership. I saw the bigger picture: a long-lasting relationship with a thriving company and a leadership team that shares my vision and values. Having worked with many of the same individuals throughout my career, I feel a strong sense of familiarity and mutual respect, which enhances my enthusiasm for contributing to TWH’s continued growth and success. Believe me, it was never about the money; it was about joining a team where I can make a meaningful impact.
VP of Revenue Optimization
Reason I work at TWH: Innovative environment with a family feel.
Favorite part of the job: Collaborating with the teams to develop and implement strategies.
Favorite TWH moment: Opening new hotels. I love to see the strategies we put in place playout and see how quickly we can ramp the hotel.
Natasha spent the first part of her career in operations as a General Manager and then a Regional Director of Operations. She found her passion after transitioning into Revenue Management. In 2019, Natasha joined Texas Western Hospitality as a Corporate Director of Revenue and in November 2021, she was promoted to the Vice President of Revenue Optimization.
Natasha lives in Nashville and is married to her husband Glenn. They love to travel. The beach is their happy place!
Regional Director of Sales
Reason I work at TWH: They value an entrepreneurial spirit, and they treat you like family.
Favorite room service item: Wine!
Favorite TWH property to stay at: Too Hard to Choose!
Erica has been a driven sales professional in the hospitality industry for 14 years. Her time in sales has taken her from Sugar Land, Texas to Jacksonville, Florida, and back again to the Houston area as part of the TWH family. Her ability to drive and exceed sales goals is just one of the things that makes her such an asset to our team; she also has an uncanny ability to help those around her develop to their full potential. Having such mastery of sales and teamwork have garnered her various awards during her time in the business including multiple Hotel of the Year accolades, Manager of the Quarter, Sales Team of the Year, and Sales MVP.
She is also a team player when it comes to her off time, dedicated to the causes of the Guthy Jackson Foundation, focusing on the research and understanding of neuromyelitis optica (NMO), and the Mayo Clinic Research for NMO. Her drive to develop others has also propelled her into helping other philanthropic organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse and the United Methodist Committee on Relief.
Regional Director of Sales
Reason I work at TWH: The people!!! I have worked for a few different management companies, and the people at Texas Western are like no other. TWH hires good people that truly become like family. I love the atmosphere.
Favorite part of the job: The relationships that I have made through my Sales journey are what I love most about my current role. Being able to build mutual beneficial partnerships and having the opportunity to “wow” our clients is very fulfilling for me.
Biggest professional accomplishment: Taking the leap! Growing up, I never considered working in hospitality, but a front desk position found me and I learned that I quite enjoyed the industry. When first thinking about being in hotel Sales, I was apprehensive to take the leap. I did so and have loved what I do ever since! In Sales negotiations, I have found that “taking a leap” to ask an additional question, or reach out to an additional person, or try that contact one more time WILL prove to be lucrative.
Jessica started in the hospitality industry over 20 years ago at the front desk of a Hilton Garden Inn. She worked her way up to Sales Coordinator, then to Sales Manager, and finally to Director of Sales in 2009 where she opened the Hilton Garden Inn Arlington and led the team to win opening hotel of the year. She continued her career gaining experience with more hotel brands such as Homewood Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites, Embassy Suites, Comfort Suites, Residence Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Suites, and TownePlace Suites. Jessica joined the corporate team as Regional Director of Sales in 2024.
Jessica lives in the Dallas area and is married to her husband Jason. They have three grown boys and recently became grandparents! Jessica enjoys spending time with family and values this time greatly. She enjoys back yard family BBQ’s, traveling to any beach, and of course rooting on the World Series Winning Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys!
Regional Director of Revenue
Reason I work at TWH: Everyone makes you feel supported and valued.
Favorite part of the job: No day is the same. Having many hotels across multiple markets keeps things interesting and it never gets boring.
Favorite room service item: Any kind of dessert.
Darin stared his journey in the hospitality industry in 2004 as a Guest Service Manager, eventually transitioning to Revenue Management in 2016. His dedication and passion for the field led him to join Texas Western in January 2022. Outside of work he enjoys spending quality time with friends and family. He also looks for opportunities to explore new destinations through travel and appreciates almost any outdoor activity.
Regional Director of Revenue
Reason I work at TWH: The family culture feel, supporting development and inspiring the best version me.
Favorite part of the job: The consistent dynamic of creating, executing, and measuring strategies while collaborating with different teams and personalities.
Biggest professional accomplishment: Joining the TWH team!
Andrew began his hospitality career over 20 years ago as a hotel night auditor while attending Indiana University. Working his way up through the ranks, embracing various management roles in Operations and Sales, leading to Regional General Manager for Hilton Worldwide. His passion was always for revenue management, and in 2018 Andrew transitioned to Revenue Manager, never looking back, receiving accolades as Top 40 Under 40 in Hotel Management Magazine, and awarded Revenue Manager of the Year in 2020. In 2023, Andrew joined Texas Western Hospitality as Corporate Director of Revenue.
Andrew lives in Central Indiana and is married to his wife Nichole, proud parents of two boys Jaxson and Jamison. In spare time he enjoys family movie nights or sitting around the fire. He has a passion for food and sports, bleeds Cubbie Blue, and active in community baseball, basketball and golf programs.
Regional Director of Eccommerce
Favorite Part of the Job: Hotel people are the best people; my colleagues are the best part of my job
Reason I work at TWH: The ability to use the company’s entrepreneurial spirit daily by making decisions for our hotels and pushing new initiatives
Favorite TWH Property to stay at: Home2 Tucson Airport, as an Arizona native I love the desert views!
Courtney is a proud Oklahoma State University alumnus from the school of Hotel & Restaurant Administration. Her first job out of college was at a resort in Phoenix, AZ. She worked in multiple roles at the property and learned where she fit best in the world of hotels. Having worked across many departments from event operations to revenue management, Courtney found a love for strategy combined with creativity. After working on property, Courtney moved to the management company side and hasn’t looked back. Working across multiple hotels and brands is exciting and creates something new every day. The learning opportunities continue to present themselves with different marketing initiatives and a changing online world.
When away from the office, Courtney has a love of cooking for friends & family and enjoys traveling with her husband, Joey and taking their dog Hank on walks or hikes.
