Benchmark Hospitality International names Les Utley General Manager for Hotel Contessa, San Antonio

Benchmark Hospitality International has named Les Utley general manager for Hotel Contessa, located on the picturesque Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas. Greg Champion, Benchmark’s chief operating officer, made the announcement. Prior to joining Hotel Contessa, Les Utley was general manager of The Heathman Hotel, located in Kirkland, Washington, near Seattle. He has served as general manager for multiple luxury hotels and resorts throughout his productive career. Mr. Utley began his hospitality career working in sales and marketing in Cincinnati, and has held director of sales & marketing and general manager positions at luxury hotels in Los Angeles, New York City, Vail, Houston, and previously in San Antonio. While serving in his most recent position, Mr. Utley held Board of Director positions for the Washington Lodging Association, Kirkland Chamber of Commerce and Kirkland Downtown Association. He is a graduate of The University of Cincinnati where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and business. Mr. Utley is returning to San Antonio with his family.