Defining Hospitality Building Resilient Hotel Investment Models - Hugh Taylor - Michels & Taylor - Episode # 233
Jan 7, 2026
Hugh Taylor, CEO of Michels & Taylor and OBE honoree, brings 35 years of hospitality experience to the discussion. He reveals the essence of true hospitality—making every client feel valued and understood. Hugh delves into the journey of transforming from a marketing role at Hilton to leading a successful hotel asset management firm. He shares insights on designing resilient business models that thrive in crises, the importance of transparency with investors, and adapting to ongoing industry changes. His take on seizing investment opportunities will inspire entrepreneurs!
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How Michels & Taylor Grew Into Four Arms
- Hugh explains Michels & Taylor's four services: asset management, advisory, management, and investment.
- He illustrates scale by citing under-2,000 rooms in asset management and notable hotels like St. Pancras.
From Hilton Exec To Crisis-Era Asset Manager
- Hugh recounts being recruited from Hilton to manage investor-owned portfolios with David Michels in 2007.
- He tells how the new business quickly faced the 2008 crisis and intense lender scrutiny.
Honesty Won The Banks' Trust
- Hugh describes presenting a business plan to Rothschilds and David Michels bluntly winning over banks by being direct.
- He credits transparency and honesty for earning lender trust during restructuring.