Monty Bennett, a renowned hotel magnate from Dallas, Texas, has carved an impressive legacy in the hospitality industry. Through his leadership of Ashford, Inc., Ashford Hospitality Trust, and Braemar Hotels & Resorts, he and his teams manage and operate over 100 hotels across the United States. His exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of hotel management and real estate has established him as a significant force in luxury hospitality, driving growth and expansion in a highly competitive market.

Monty's collection of high-end properties dates back to the late 1960s when his family began acquiring hotels. Over the following decades, he transformed the family business from six hotels into a publicly traded empire of more than 130 properties. His leadership has not only facilitated this remarkable expansion but also positioned his companies to operate 13 resort properties in six states and the U.S. Virgin Islands, highlighting his expertise in diversifying the portfolio and catering to the luxury market.

Bennett's educational journey played a significant role in shaping his successful career. A graduate of Cornell University, he earned his bachelor's degree with distinction from the prestigious School of Hotel Administration in 1989. He furthered his education with a master's degree in business administration from Cornell's S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management. His strong academic foundation in both hospitality and business has been pivotal in his ability to navigate the complexities of the industry and achieve sustained success.

Today, Monty Bennett holds multiple leadership positions across his ventures. As the chairman and founder of Braemar Hotels & Resorts, he oversees a portfolio of 13 luxury properties, including standout hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas and The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe. He is also the chairman and founder of Ashford Hospitality Trust, which focuses on upscale, full-service hotels, and serves as the CEO of Ashford, Inc. His deep involvement in these organizations reflects his hands-on approach to leadership and his commitment to driving innovation and profitability.

Founded by Monty in 2013, Braemar Hotels & Resorts is an offshoot of Ashford Hospitality Trust that focuses on the luxury hotel segment. With 13 premier properties under its management, Braemar exemplifies his vision for excellence in hospitality. The company operates according to five guiding principles—ethics, innovation, profitability, engagement, and tenacity—that resonate with its approach to business. Properties such as The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas and The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe are prime examples of the luxury experiences that Braemar offers under his guidance.

In 2003, Bennett founded Ashford Hospitality Trust, a company dedicated to investing in upscale, full-service hotels. Since then, the trust has grown to manage over 110 properties, including landmark hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta and the Renaissance Nashville Hotel. His extensive experience in hotel real estate and asset management has been instrumental in the company's success, as he has expertly navigated market cycles and made strategic investments. In addition to its commercial success, Ashford Hospitality Trust is also committed to philanthropy, participating in numerous charitable initiatives, including its annual Community Service Day.

Ashford, Inc., another of Monty's ventures, was founded in 2014. The company serves as an adviser to both Braemar Hotels & Resorts and Ashford Hospitality Trust, providing global asset management, investment management, and related services. Beyond its advisory role, Ashford, Inc. manages a broader portfolio of businesses in the real estate and hospitality sectors. Under his leadership, the company has developed a Hospitality Products and Services department, which focuses on investing in operating companies that support the hospitality industry. This innovative approach has positioned Ashford, Inc. as a leader in hospitality services and investment.

With more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Monty Bennett's expertise spans hotel real estate, finance, operations, development, asset management, and project management. His comprehensive understanding of these areas has been crucial in driving the success of his ventures. His focus on strategic growth and innovation has allowed him to remain at the forefront of the industry, navigating the ever-changing hospitality landscape while consistently delivering value to his stakeholders. His leadership has been instrumental in the continued growth and success of his businesses.

Throughout his decades-long career, Monty has been a member of numerous high-profile industry associations, where he has held leadership roles that further demonstrate his influence within the hospitality sector. His dedication to philanthropy matches his commitment to excellence, as he has supported over 100 charities, nonprofit organizations, and causes throughout his career. His professional accomplishments reflect his ability to balance business success with a deep sense of social responsibility, making a positive impact on both the industry and the community.

Bennett's philanthropic efforts extend across a wide range of causes, with a particular focus on children's charities, healthcare, and community support. Over the years, he has supported over 100 organizations, including the Alzheimer's Association, Habitat for Humanity, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, and the National Kidney Foundation. He is also a strong advocate for educational equality and civic engagement, consistently giving back to the local Dallas-Fort Worth community. His philanthropic spirit is an integral part of his leadership philosophy, reinforcing the values that guide his business ventures.

Outside of his professional commitments, Monty Bennett is passionate about a variety of personal interests. A devoted father and stepfather of four, he enjoys spending time with his family at their 1,500-acre ranch in Athens, Texas. The ranch, which has been in the Bennett family for three generations, provides a retreat where he can engage in his hobbies, including exercising, game management, and reading. His connection to the outdoors and his love for spending time with family reflects his ability to maintain a balanced lifestyle, combining the demands of his career with personal fulfillment.

Bennett's career is a testament to his vision, leadership, and dedication to excellence. From transforming a small family business into a publicly traded empire with over 130 properties to his philanthropic endeavors, his impact on the hospitality industry and the community is profound. His leadership of Ashford, Inc., Ashford Hospitality Trust, and Braemar Hotels & Resorts continues to drive growth and innovation, positioning him as a critical figure in luxury hospitality. With a deep commitment to both his business ventures and philanthropic efforts, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the industry for years to come.