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“Four Seasons has appointed a new CEO, Allen Smith, who was previously the CEO of Prudential Real Estate Investors (PREI). Smith takes over from Kathleen Taylor, who stepped down in February after three years in the role. Smith will officially begin his position at Four Seasons on September 23, 2013.
Smith has led PREI since 2008, overseeing its expansion to 23 offices worldwide and managing $53 billion in real estate assets, including hotels. He joined Prudential in 1987 after earning his master’s degree from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration. Throughout his career, Smith has gained extensive experience in strategic planning, organizational development, and real estate investment across various property types.
Four Seasons, founded in 1960 by Isadore Sharp, has grown into a global luxury hotel brand with 91 properties in 38 countries. The company, which was taken private in 2007, is now focused on further expanding its iconic brand and strengthening its position in the luxury hospitality market.
Commenting on the appointment, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, Chairman of Kingdom Holding Company, expressed confidence in Smith’s leadership, citing the strong and consistent vision that has driven Four Seasons’ success. Michael Larson, Chief Investment Officer of Cascade Investment, highlighted Smith’s proven ability to lead global growth and maintain the quality of the brand.
Isadore Sharp, Founder and Chairman of Four Seasons, expressed his satisfaction with Smith’s selection, noting that Smith shares the company’s vision and values. Sharp believes that Smith will inspire the executive team and employees worldwide, ensuring that Four Seasons continues to be the leading luxury hotel brand.
Smith expressed his excitement about the opportunity, emphasizing his admiration for the Four Seasons brand and his commitment to leveraging his experience to elevate the company to new heights.
In related news, Prudential Real Estate Investors announced that Eric Adler, currently PREI’s Chief Investment Officer, will succeed Smith as CEO. Adler, who joined PREI in 2010, has extensive experience in global real estate markets and will lead the company as it continues to grow and expand its client relationships.
Adler’s background includes leadership roles at Tishman Speyer and Morgan Stanley, where he managed real estate investments across Europe. He holds a summa cum laude degree from the University of Arizona and a graduate business degree from HEC Business School in France.
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