The lobby may be stunning and the bedding may be plush … but without heart, there is no hospitality. The true heart of any hotel is the people behind it. As Sr. Director of Hotel Openings and Transitions, Tom O’Neil’s job is to bring the heart of McKibbon to life inside every new hotel property--and that process begins long before Opening Day. Tom’s career began 14 years ago, as General Manager at Marriott International and Park Place Hospitality group. He joined McKibbon in 2005. Over the last 16 years, he’s been an integral part of 15 hotel opening teams. Along the way, he’s learned that a million little things can (and will) go wrong during the process of opening a new hotel. But he’s mastered the secret of managing it with grace and creating a hotel opening experience that’s nothing short of phenomenal. Over the course of his career, Tom has achieved the recognition of Profit Warrior SE Region Marriott & Sales Excellence as well as the Marriott President’s Award. When he’s not helping a fellow colleague out or cutting Opening Day ribbons, you’ll likely find him home with his wife and kids. He lives for that moment when he comes home from work and his son’s face lights up. He’s passionate about helping kids in need and living the McKibbon mission by serving his community.
