Kohler Appoints Ron Vlasic Lodging VP

Kohler Hospitality has appointed Ron Vlasic as its new Vice President of Lodging. He will oversee lodging operations across the company's flagship properties, including The American Club, Carriage House, and Inn on Woodlake, according to an announcement from the company. His focus will be on guest experience, operational excellence, and the long-term stewardship of the lodging portfolio.

Vlasic brings over 25 years of executive leadership in luxury hotels, lifestyle brands, and travel organizations. He is a respected industry voice, having served as Chair of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and as an advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on travel and tourism policy.

Career Background

Most recently, Vlasic served as Executive Vice President at Invited Clubs. There, he led operations for 30 luxury lifestyle business clubs and six university stadium clubs across the United States. His responsibilities included member experience, culinary innovation, and strategic planning.

Prior to that role, he was Chief Operating Officer at Hostmark Hospitality Group. He oversaw a portfolio of 20 hotels and restaurants, leading operations, marketing, and revenue growth.

Vlasic spent nearly 20 years earlier in his career with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. He helped expand the company from 12 to 63 upper-upscale lifestyle hotels across the U.S. and Canada. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping Kimpton's approach to lifestyle hospitality through brand development and guest experience initiatives.

He has also held leadership positions with Choose Chicago, the National Restaurant Association, and several hospitality foundations.

Role and Outlook

Kohler Hospitality states that Vlasic's experience across lodging, boutique hospitality, and complex operations brings a valuable perspective to its heritage portfolio. His career has spanned various hospitality models and markets.

The company says his ability to combine the personalization of lifestyle hospitality with five-star service standards positions him to enhance the guest experience while honoring each property's distinct character. Vlasic is a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA).

His appointment coincides with the upcoming reopening of the Inn on Woodlake. Kohler says the hire reflects its continued investment in the evolution of its flagship lodging assets. As the organization looks forward, Vlasic will aim to build on the distinctive heritage of its properties while elevating guest experiences.