Distinguished figure in the hospitality industry, Richard Holtzman, has joined The Athens Group, a comprehensive real estate development firm specializing in crafting upscale resorts, urban hotels, luxury residences, and recreational amenities such as golf courses and spas. With a wealth of expertise spanning more than forty years, Holtzman assumes the role of principal and vice president of hospitality. In this capacity, he will oversee the company’s fundamental operations and asset management functions, while also contributing to the expansion and oversight of Athens Group’s project portfolio and strategic alliances, encompassing capital partners and hotel operators.
“Richard Holtzman brings an invaluable blend of expertise in luxury hospitality and a proven track record in project development and operations. His addition to The Athens Group underscores our commitment to excellence and innovation for the benefit of our partners,” said Kim Richards, President & CEO of The Athens Group. “We welcome him as an integral part of our team as we continue to elevate our projects and set new standards in the industry.” The Athens Group has exciting plans to launch three new deluxe resort and hotel ventures within the next year. Holtzman will collaborate closely with the company’s operational and financial partners to ensure the success of each endeavor.
Richard Holtzman spent over a decade at Montage International before joining the Athens Group, where he held the position of vice president. Notably, he spearheaded the opening of the Montage Kapalua Bay in Hawaii, situated on the historic grounds of the Kapalua Bay Hotel. Transitioning to a corporate role within Montage International post-opening, Holtzman focused on fostering senior leadership development to propel the growth of the brand.
With a career spanning four decades, Holtzman’s leadership extends across prestigious establishments such as The Plaza Hotel and the Arizona Biltmore. He also played a pivotal role as the inaugural General Manager at The Boulders Resort and Club in Arizona, which later served as the foundation for Carefree Resorts, where he served as the founding President. In 1995, HOTELS magazine recognized Holtzman as “Hotelier of the World” for his transformative impact on the resort landscape through Carefree Resorts, making him the youngest recipient of this esteemed accolade. Following the sale of Carefree Resorts, Holtzman held prominent positions, including Division President at Wyndham International and President of Kukui’ula Development Company at DMB Associates based in Scottsdale. He further contributed to the hospitality sector as the leader of the Resort Division at Pyramid Global Hospitality.
Holtzman earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. He and his wife, Sheila, reside in Scottsdale, Arizona, and are proud parents to three adult children: Jennifer, Whitney, and Kevin. Holtzman maintains an active involvement in national industry affairs, serving as an Executive Committee member for The American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Resort Committee, and he previously held the position of chairman.
