Ritz-Carlton welcomes two new hospitality executives

Two hospitality executives have joined a five-star resort in Sarasota, bringing with them nearly 50 years of combined experience.  

The Ritz-Carlton, located west of Interstate 75 on Sarasota Bay, recently announced Jillian Dampier as the new director of group and catering sales and Peter Francis as director of transient sales. 

Dampier has held several leadership positions throughout her 20 years of experience and across well-known brands including Hyatt, Conrad Hotels and Resorts, and properties within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. In her new position, she’ll be in charge of sales for group events while also overseeing special events like weddings, corporate catering and social events. 

Francis also has worked for prominent brands, even kicking off his 28-year hospitality career at Walt Disney World before settling in for 18 years with Marriott Bonvoy brands. 

“We feel extremely fortunate to have Jillian and Peter joining the ladies and gentlemen at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota,” the property’s General Manager Rajesh Khubchandani says in a news release. “Their combined experience is guaranteed to elevate our hotel’s offerings in virtually every respect.”