Industry Veterans to Lead Hilton Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Two veteran hoteliers have been selected for key leadership positions at Hilton Pittsburgh, the iconic hotel located near the confluence of the city's famed Three Rivers.

Jim Sega was appointed General Manager and Tony Aslanian was named Director of Sales and Marketing. Officials from Crescent Hotels & Resorts, the management firm that recently assumed oversight of the distinguished property, announced the appointments.

"These seasoned professionals have the perfect blend of energy and experience to usher in a dynamic new era for Hilton Pittsburgh," said Michael George, President & CEO, Crescent Hotels & Resorts.

Aslanian is a familiar face within Pittsburgh's convention and tourism community because he served as Director of Sales and Marketing at Hilton Pittsburgh from 2003 to 2006.  The 35-year industry veteran returns to the Golden Triangle after stints shepherding the sales and marketing efforts of Hilton at Walt Disney World and The Peabody Orlando.  He has also held executive positions with several other Hilton and Marriott properties.

"Tony's expertise with hotel marketing in Pittsburgh and around the nation are a perfect fit," said Dave Horton, Global Head, Hilton Hotels.  "He brings an in-depth understanding of this property's history and an impressive vision for its future potential."

Sega brings a wealth of experience to the hotel, having served as General Manager with Marriott, Sheraton and Hilton brands as well as independent resorts such as South Seas Resort in Captiva Island FL and several other resorts in Florida and the Caribbean.  A 30-year hospitality veteran, Sega has distinguished himself as an effective team builder and has primarily focused on hotel transitions and expansions.

"Jim is a true pro when it comes to hotel management, operations and guest services," George said.  "He's joining Hilton Pittsburgh at a very exciting time."

About Hilton Pittsburgh

Under the venerable Hilton flag for 50+ years, Hilton Pittsburgh is the city's largest and most recognizable hotel.  Adjacent to Point State Park, the property is conveniently located near Heinz Field, PNC Park, the Cultural District, and the Convention Center.  

Hilton Pittsburgh recently renovated all 712-guest rooms to provide greater comfort, style and convenience for business and pleasure travelers.  Each of those beautifully appointed accommodations features flat panel HDTV, Hilton's Serenity Collection Bed and Bath amenities, and world renowned Lavazza® in-room coffee -- all along with breathtaking views of the city's skyscape or Three Rivers.

Hilton Pittsburgh currently features 40,000 square feet of flexible function space, including Pittsburgh's largest hotel ballroom and a state-of-the-art Conference Center. The property employs almost 500 local residents and welcomes hundreds of conventions and special events each year.

Phase Two of the hotel's renovation plan will see the completion of a dramatic wave-like exterior addition that pays tribute to the city's Three Rivers and a Grand Staircase that will connect the Lobby and Ballroom levels.  

Additional information about Hilton Pittsburgh may be found on the company's Web site: www.pittsburgh.hilton.com

About Hilton Hotels

Hilton Hotels is the stylish, forward-thinking global leader of hospitality that welcomes guests in more countries than any other full-service hotel brand. The Hilton brand currently includes more than 530 hotels and resorts in 76 countries, and plans to serve travelers in 80 countries by the end of 2011. By offering innovative products, services and amenities, Hilton enables travelers to be at their best 24/7, whether traveling for business or leisure. Start your journey at www.hilton.com.

About Crescent Hotels & Resorts

Headquartered in Fairfax, Va., outside of Washington, D.C., Crescent Hotels & Resorts owns, manages and co-invests in hotel real estate, and is an independent, third-party operator of hotels and resorts.  The company currently owns or operates approximately 62 hotels and resorts aggregating more than 13,200 rooms in 27 states.  The company's portfolio encompasses properties in the, luxury, resort, upper upscale full-service, boutique, convention and premium select-service segments under the premier hotel brands of Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Hyatt, InterContinental, Radisson, Preferred, and Wyndham, as well as independent hotels, and resorts.  Additional information about Crescent Hotel & Resorts may be found on the company's Web site: www.chrco.com

SOURCE Hilton Pittsburgh