James Gould

Principal 

Jim has more than thirty years of experience managing hotels in upscale markets. Prior to starting Horizon Hotel Group, Jim was Regional Vice President of Operations for Portfolio Hotels & Resorts overseeing full and limited service properties. He is known as a transitional leader, developing award winning teams that produce exceptional results that provide value to customer, employee and shareholder.

While at Portfolio Jim oversaw such brands as IHG, Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton. In addition to his regional responsibilities Jim helped grow Portfolio from five hotels to twenty-four hotels over a two year period. Jim was the main contact for the group's institutional investors such as Prudential, Och Ziff and Fidelity Investments. Jim worked on and oversaw due diligence, asset sales, and consulting projects as well as securing new management contracts.

Before joining Portfolio Jim was general manager of Sofitel Chicago O'Hare, Rosemont, Illinois. He made his mark at the Sofitel by improving guest, employee satisfaction and market share to the highest levels in the history of the hotel. Jim developed and maintained the relationship with the owner, Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers. At Sofitel Jim also worked with the corporate office both leading or participating in the development of Sofitel’s “Business Continuity Plan”, the “Database Marketing Program” and the development of the Sofitel Chicago Water Tower. During Jim’s time as general manager the Sofitel Chicago O’Hare won: the Planners Choice Award, Pinnacle Award and Merit & Distinction Award for outstanding service for meetings and conferences held at the property.

In 2010 Jim served as the Chairman of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, receiving the Volunteer of the Year for 2011 award from the IHLA and American Hotel Lodging Association. In addition he served as the 2011 Chairman for the Schaumburg Business Association. Jim also served as the Vice Chairman for the Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau from 2008 – 2011

Nick tywan

Vice President Asset Management 

Nick has over 40 years’ experience in the hospitality, parking and airline industries; and specializes in consulting and asset management. He holds an outstanding record of improving profit margins, enhancing revenues, extending market penetration, developing new revenue sources, and managing significant cost containment. His experience includes new development, procurement, re-branding, acquisitions, due diligence, market & financial analysis, and restructuring.

His property experience includes working for several large hotel companies and condominium hotels as a Vice President of Operations. During his career he has consulted and operated various brand affiliations including Shangri-La, Four Seasons, Trump Hotels, Ritz Carlton, Conrad, St. Regis, Marriott, Renaissance, Omni, Sheraton, Hilton, Holiday Inns, Embassy Suites, Radisson, Hawthorn Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites, and various independent properties.

He is also in demand by the Parking and Airline Industry as a consultant and asset manager.