Bengel Named General Manager of Two Arena District Hotel Properties
By: Identity Team
COLUMBUS, Ohio, March 16, 2012 — The Crowne Plaza Hotel® Columbus – Downtown and The Lofts, located in the famed Arena District, have named Dirk J. Bengel as their new general manager. Both properties are owned by Nationwide Realty Investors (NRI) and operated by Columbus Hospitality Management.
In his new role, Bengel is responsible for the day-to-day operations at both hotels and a team of more than 200 associates.
Bengel has spent more than 25 years in the hospitality industry and has significant leadership experience with 13 hotels and resorts located in nine different states. Most recently, he was general manager at Embassy Suites Columbus Airport location where he was responsible for the successful opening of the new prototype hotel, which later achieved AAA Four Diamond Award status under his leadership.
He started his career with Hyatt Hotels and Resorts, where he spent 23 years in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility. During this time, he played an active role in all areas of hotel operations including managing renovations, increasing revenue, implementing programs to improve the customer experience and maintaining brand standards, among many others.
Bengel is active in the Columbus community and serves as a board member for Experience Columbus and for the Benefit Concert for Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is also a guest lecturer at the Ohio State University School of Hospitality. Bengel earned his Bachelor of Science degree in restaurant, hotel and institution management from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind.
About The Lofts
The Lofts is a hotel like no other in the world. Located in the Arena District, each of its 44 rooms is distinctive, offering special features that truly set it apart. Its designer interior offers clean, contemporary lines, dramatically juxtaposed against the strength of a proud historic building. But beyond its rich history and great beauty, The Lofts offers guests a host of features and personal amenities to make it your home away from home. Learn more at www.55lofts.com/.
About Crowne Plaza® Hotel Columbus – Downtown
Bustling Columbus is the place to be for a day of meetings and a night of fun. Our Arena District hotel is near event venues, restaurants, The Ohio State University and Greater Columbus Convention Center. It is ideally located adjacent to Nationwide Insurance World Headquarters and the convention center, which can be accessed with indoor, covered walkways. The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring downtown or attending concerts and sporting events. Whether you’re here on vacation, to attend a convention or to cheer on the Buckeyes or Blue Jackets, you’ll enjoy your stay at the Crowne Plaze Hotel Columbus – Downtown. Learn more at www.ichotelsgroup.com.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Mark Winter
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