Michael James
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.