
ATLANTA—Hotel Phoenix, the highly anticipated luxury property at Centennial Yards, has announced the appointment of five executive leaders to guide the hotel’s operations ahead of its debut in late 2025.
The new hires join previously announced general manager Martin Wormull and director of food and beverage Omari Buncum, rounding out a leadership team tasked with launching what is expected to be one of Atlanta’s premier hospitality destinations.

Cesar Brand has been named hotel manager. Brand brings decades of experience at top-tier properties, including The Whitley in Atlanta, JW Marriott Marquis Miami, The St. Regis Bal Harbour, and W South Beach. Known for his work with luxury pre-openings and high-performing service teams, Brand will focus on guest experience and operational excellence.

Danielle Randall joins as director of sales and marketing, with more than 25 years of hospitality experience at such brands as Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. A decorated industry leader, Randall has earned multiple President’s Awards and will oversee pre-opening marketing strategies and sales initiatives.

Tiffany Newsome has been appointed director of human resources. Newsome brings 15 years of HR leadership experience at prestigious Atlanta hotels, including Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, and Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead. She recently led HR efforts for the opening of Hotel Granada by Aparium Hotel Group.

Samantha Fleisher joins as director of finance, following leadership roles at properties such as Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, Baccarat Hotel New York, and The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel New York. She will lead financial planning and operations for the hotel.

Pete Baum has been named director of engineering. With more than 15 years of experience in engineering operations at hotels, including Loews Atlanta Hotel and Hilton Marco Island, Baum brings a background in both day-to-day facilities management and large-scale openings. He was previously honored with Hyatt’s Leadership Award and Manager of the Year Award.
Hotel Phoenix is expected to open in late 2025 as part of the Centennial Yards development in downtown Atlanta. The property features signature dining concepts Zephyr and Bar Z, a rooftop pool and event lawn, and more than 15,000 square feet of versatile event space. Located across from Mercedes-Benz Stadium and within walking distance of the Georgia World Congress Center, Hotel Phoenix stands at Mile 0, the historic terminus of the Western & Atlantic Railroad.