Four Seasons CEO First Woman to win HOTELS Magazine Accolade

Four Seasons President and CEO Kathleen Taylor was recognised as the Corporate Hotelier of the World by HOTELS Magazine at a ceremony in New York City today. She is the first woman ever to receive the award.

“I deeply appreciate this honour and I am proud to join such an esteemed group of past Corporate Hoteliers of the World,” said Taylor in acceptance of the award. “In breaking new ground, I hope this achievement inspires all of the men and women in our industry who work so hard and aspire to great things.”

HOTELS magazine has presented the Hotelier of the World awards for 31 years. The winner is selected by the magazine’s more than 60,000 global readers, who vote for those who have made a significant contribution to the industry, maintain the highest level of service and demonstrate responsible and skillful management practices. Taylor is featured along with the Independent Hotelier of the World in the November issue of the magazine.

Prior to being named President and CEO in 2010, Taylor held a number of progressively senior roles over her 22-year career at Four Seasons, including President, Worldwide Business Operations, to which she was appointed in 1999, and President and Chief Operating Officer, a role she held since 2007.

In her first year as CEO, Taylor has bolstered the company’s Executive Leadership Team, appointing area Presidents of Hotel Operations in the Americas and Asia Pacific. In addition, she has been pursuing an agenda of innovation in all aspects of the company’s business, and recently created a new executive position responsible for global product and innovation.

“These important changes will prepare us for an even brighter future, ensuring that we are the first choice with guests and customers in every region of our operations, all as we continue the most significant global expansion in our history,” said Taylor. “In every location, our world class employees will provide highly customised and authentic experiences that create valuable and lasting memories for our guests.”

Taylor and her husband, Neil Harris, live in Toronto and have three children: Robin (39), Taylor (20) and Kevan (17).