Driftwood Hospitality Management promotes three within its leadership team. Bryan Postema has been named chief operating officer, Michael Buddemeyer has been appointed vice president of operations, focus service, and Michael Diaz has been promoted to chief strategy officer.
“The promotions of Bryan Postema, Michael Buddemeyer, and Michael Diaz are well-deserved and reflect our commitment to evolve and drive company growth with specialization divisions, especially with the industry trending toward unique lifestyle experiences,” David Buddemeyer, founder and president of Driftwood Hospitality Management, said in a statement. “By elevating from within, we recognize their expertise and exceptional leadership skills that reinforce our strategic vision and core values.”
In his new role as COO, Postema will oversee all aspects of hotel operations across its 80+ property portfolio, ensuring the highest guest satisfaction, setting financial milestones, and exceeding brand standards. Previously, Postema served as managing director – Driftwood Capital Assets. With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Postema has been instrumental in driving the success of DHM's full-service, resort and lifestyle, select service and special assets divisions, according to the company.
“In the ever-evolving hospitality landscape, it’s important to set the pace and standard for exceptional and unique guest experiences,” said Postema. “The structure DHM is building through its continual growth and specialization sets the entire organization up for success and allows us to repeatedly exceed and elevate guest expectations.”
As VP of operations, focus service, Buddemeyer will lead strategy and operational initiatives across DHM's newly created focus service and Extended-Stay division. Bringing more than 20 years of experience in hospitality, Buddemeyer's promotion coincides with the addition of the Fairfax Springhill Suites and Element Melbourne Oceanfront properties to the company's Focus Service division. Prior to his current role, Buddemeyer served as a regional director of operations and general manager with DHM.
Diaz has been promoted to chief strategy officer of Driftwood Hospitality Management. Diaz will focus on long-term planning and strategic growth initiatives in his new role. He previously served as chief operating officer since the company’s inception in 1998, managing Driftwood’s global hotel portfolio and operations structure. Diaz has been directly involved in managing over 100 hotels, including full-service properties, resorts, and select-service assets. His extensive experience will now drive DHM’s strategic vision and future development.