President

Michael James is the President and Founder of James Hospitality. A seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, Michael previously held the positions of President and Chief Operating Officer at Hospitality Partners for 10 years and also served as the Managing Partner of the renowned Carousel Resort Hotel for 22 years. With a career spanning over 35 years, Michael excelled in managing a diverse portfolio of hotels, both independent and franchises, including brands such as Sheraton, Guest Quarters Suites, Embassy Suites, Doubletree, and Marriott.

Michael’s time with the Carousel Group began in 2000 when the company acquired the esteemed Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condominiums, appointing him as the Managing Partner. Leading the way, Michael oversaw the restoration and repositioning of this iconic Maryland landmark after a challenging period prior to Hospitality Partners’ acquisition. Throughout his tenure, Michael played a vital role in expanding the Carousel Group’s resort presence, notably through the purchase and repositioning of the Atlantic Oceanfront Inn and Coastal Palms Beach Hotel in 2011. He further bolstered the company’s growth with the addition of Bonita Beach Hotel in 2013 and Crystal Beach Oceanfront Hotel in 2014. In subsequent years, Tidelands Caribbean Oceanfront Hotel & Suites joined as the sixth Carousel Group Hotel in 2015, followed by the addition of Cayman Hotel & Suites and the Fenwick Inn in 2019.

Michael has actively contributed to the community and industry. He served as the Chair of the Ocean City Economic Development Committee, was a member of the Ocean City Tourism Commission and Tourism Advisory Board, and a member and former Chairman of the Maryland Tourism Development Board. Michael dedicated his time and expertise to the community, previously serving on the Board of Directors for the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, The United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore, and spending nine years on the Board of Trustees for Atlantic General Hospital. With his visionary leadership and extensive industry knowledge, Michael James continues to spearhead James Hospitality’s growth and success in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.

Vice President of Operations

Matt James is a skilled professional with a diverse background in the hospitality industry. Graduating from Salisbury University in 2017 with a Management Degree from the Perdue School of Business, he has acquired extensive experience in various departments over the course of 15 years. In 2014, he was elected to the Ocean City city council, where he now serves as council president, demonstrating his commitment to public service and community development. Matt’s leadership extends beyond politics as he also holds the esteemed position of chairman of the Ocean City Tourism Commission. Furthermore, he is a licensed realtor in the state of Maryland and an active member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, showcasing his dedication to both his profession and his community.

Director of Marketing and Revenue Management

Sandy Smith is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. As our company’s Director of Marketing and Revenue Management, she brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to drive our brand’s success. With over eight years of experience in the industry, Sandy has honed her skills in strategic marketing and revenue optimization. Her dedication to excellence is evident through her certification in “The Heart of Hospitality” program, which showcases her commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences. With Sandy leading our marketing efforts, we are confident in delivering memorable and impactful campaigns that will elevate our brand to new heights.

Director of Finance

With a solid foundation in finance and over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Charles is a trusted leader in financial management. He graduated from York College of Pennsylvania in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, equipping him with the necessary skills to excel in his role. Charless’ expertise lies in navigating complex financial landscapes, optimizing revenue streams, and implementing strategic financial plans to drive the company’s growth and success. With his deep understanding of the hospitality sector and commitment to excellence, Charles plays a crucial role in ensuring James Hospitality remains at the forefront of financial management in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Director of Human Resources

Terry Luzius is a highly accomplished professional with a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry. As the Director of Human Resources, he brings over 30 years of expertise, spanning from restaurants to hotels. Terry has had the privilege of working at prestigious establishments such as the renowned Waldorf Astoria, Wyndham, and Hilton, where he developed his skills in managing human capital. Additionally, his extensive knowledge extends to independent properties in popular tourist destinations like Key West, Florida, and Ocean City, Maryland. Terry’s impressive background and deep understanding of the industry make him an invaluable asset, ensuring the smooth operation of human resources functions while prioritizing employee satisfaction and success.

Graphic Designer

Diane McCloskey is a talented Graphic Designer currently working in the marketing department. She graduated with a major in Graphic Design from Flagler College in 2020, where she honed her creative skills and developed a deep understanding of design principles. With a passion for visual communication, Diane transitioned into the Hospitality industry in 2021, bringing her unique perspective and innovative ideas to enhance brand experiences. With over a decade of experience using Adobe Creative Suites, she is a true expert in leveraging the software’s tools and features to bring her artistic vision to life. Diane’s dedication to her craft and continuous skill refinement since 2013 makes her an invaluable asset to any design team.