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Meet the New General Manager of Hotel Forty Five: Gary W. Byrd

Posted: August 23, 2023

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Byrd brings unparalleled experience and leadership to historic Macon boutique gem

MACON, Ga. (Aug. 22, 2023)Hotel Forty Five welcomes Gary W. Byrd as its new general manager. In his new position, Byrd will oversee all aspects of operations at Hotel Forty Five while planning, directing, and executing robust food and beverage and hotel management strategies to enhance guest satisfaction, revenue and profitability.

By leveraging his experience, Byrd strives to develop productive and collaborative cultures and establish a positive and team-oriented working environment. With his extensive knowledge of the industry, Byrd will continue to build the hotel’s brand recognition and reputation to elevate the experience for all guests. A music enthusiast, he looks forward to diving into this new role with Macon’s deep-rooted musical legacy as his inspiration.

“I’m honored to lead Hotel Forty Five as the new general manager,” said Byrd. “With a dedicated team by my side, I look forward to elevating the hotel and dining outlets to new heights. I’m equally excited to delve into Macon’s rich musical history, infusing its vibrant legacy into our guest experiences.”

Most recently, Byrd served as the general manager at The Campbell House, Curio Collection by Hilton, in Lexington, Kentucky, where he built a dynamic culture with his associates to create memorable experiences for their guests. Prior to this, he served as assistant general manager at both The Campbell House and Hilton Garden Inn. In these roles, he assisted with overall hotel operations including occupancy, food and beverage, and events, as well as managing sales, expenses, and health and safety compliance while meeting annual goals.

“We’re excited to welcome Gary to Hotel Forty Five and feel fortunate to have found an exceptional leader to support our team and community,” said Joe Collier, president and founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development. “Gary’s experience and passion for hospitality aligns with our values, and we have full confidence that he will be a driving force in creating meaningful connections between our hotel and the Macon community.”

Byrd also held the position of director of food and beverage with Hilton for over 10 years, directing all catering and banquet operations, kitchen management, restaurant facilities, and room service. He was responsible for developing new systems, processes, and procedures to ensure maximum efficiency. In his free time, Byrd enjoys spending time with his family, especially his daughter and granddaughter. He has an extensive vinyl collection and rocks out on the drums in his basement.

For high-resolution photography of Hotel Forty Five and Gary W. Byrd’s headshot, see here.

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About Hotel Forty Five

Hotel Forty Five, owned by IDP Properties and Mainsail Lodging & Development, is a 94-room boutique hotel in Macon, Georgia. Joining Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, an exceptional collection of independent hotels and resorts with unique personalities and spirit, Hotel Forty Five celebrates the building’s original character and historic significance. Each of Hotel Forty Five’s rooms and suites immerse guests in a timeless experience, providing the ideal space to rest and recharge. Vintage design elements with rich contrasting colors and copper metal accents are featured throughout creating a redefined yet classic finish. Hotel Forty Five boasts three different dining concepts, Loom, Hightales Rooftop Bar and Reckon Coffee & Wine Bar. Occupying one of downtown Macon’s few remaining historic high-rises, the boutique hotel is aptly named after its location on an iconic 45-degree angle, formed by Cherry and First Streets with Cotton Avenue. For more information please go to hotelfortyfive.com, or follow on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

About Mainsail Lodging & Development

Mainsail Lodging & Development is an award-winning, Tampa, Florida-based company specializing in hotel, furnished housing, and resort property management and development, marketing and sales. An established company with a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, Mainsail prides itself in finding unique lodging opportunities with a purpose and applying its passion and expertise to each project. Founded by President Joe Collier with a combination of daring vision and dogged determination, Mainsail has built an impressive portfolio of top-branded properties throughout the southeastern United States and Caribbean. Each Mainsail property inspires guests with a distinct character and meticulously crafted, sophisticated style, from a private island resort, and urban culinary showplaces, to waterfront marvels, boutique southern hotels, and a historic jazz era icon. Stay Sojo, Mainsail’s newest brand, provides short-term furnished living options across the country, while Mainsail Vacation Rentals manages a collection of private vacation homes in Florida and the Caribbean. To ensure long-term success and profitability, Mainsail relies on the dedication of its high-performing associates, a growing group of enterprising investors, and a commitment to giving back, every step of the way. MainsailHotels.com

About IDP Properties

IDP Properties is a full-service real estate development firm headquartered in Valdosta, Ga that invests in and redevelops communities. The IDP team has completed over $1 billion dollars in projects and specializes in acquisition, property management, consulting and development. IDP takes pride that each project they develop is as diverse as the communities they serve. IDP Properties’ purpose is to strengthen communities and leave a lasting positive impact.

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