Six Continents<.> Hotels, Inc. announced that Edward Shaw has been named regional director of midscale franchise for the northwestern United States, responsible for the franchise development of the Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Staybridge Suites brands in the region.

In this role, Shaw will be responsible for franchise development and growth of the Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Staybridge Suites brands in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and northern California.

Ed brings a wealth of experience in franchise sales and development to Six Continents Hotels, said Jon Kurnit, senior vice president, Franchise and Real Estate Development, Six Continents Hotels, The Americas. He is a uniquely qualified, experienced developer and a valuable addition to the company.

Prior to joining Six Continents Hotels, Shaw held senior positions in franchise sales and development with Choice Hotels International and Club Resorts. His most recent position was senior director and regional vice president of development at Choice Hotels International, where he was responsible for managing and executing the regional development strategy for the various Choice brands within the Midwestern and Western U.S. regions. Shaw is a graduate of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management at Michigan State University.