About Us

In 2016 Samantha founded Hotel Management Group with the vision of creating a management company that focuses on professional leadership that drives associate engagement, guest satisfaction and profitable hotels. 

With more than 28 years of experience in the hospitality industry, she has earned the reputation for outstanding operations with a proven leadership track record. 

Throughout her hospitality career, Samantha has held roles with Marriott, IHG and Hilton brands as a General Manager, Regional Sales Manager and Area Operations Manager. During her time in these roles, she has won prestigious awards for Opening Hotel of the Year, Sales Ramp Up, Sales Manager of the Year and a two-time winner for Hotel of the Year, amongst many others. 

Samantha has a passion for people with a purposeful process that creates a winning culture with award winning hotels.

Briar joined Hotel Management Group in 2017. She began her journey in hospitality at a young age, working at her family's restaurant and bar in Montana. She studied business management and psychology at the University of Arizona while acquiring hands-on knowledge and experience as she grew her hospitality career within the Marriott, IHG and Hilton brands. 

Briar has been an Area Sales Manager, General Manager, and Event Coordinator. Briar has received awards for producing company-wide, top revenue results, receiving awards for setting new records in account acquisition and recognition for setting RevPar records consistently at her hotels. 

As Vice President of Sales and Marketing, she is responsible for maximizing profits by setting specific and measurable goals and strategizing with the hotel teams to acquire new customers and shift business from the competitors. 

Ian joined Hotel Management Group in 2013 as General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Surprise, Arizona. In 2016, he was promoted to Vice President of Finance and Human Resources.

Ian holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from Grand Canyon University and brings a strong blend of financial expertise and leadership to the organization.

In his role, Ian oversees all aspects of corporate accounting and human resources. His responsibilities include financial reporting, general ledger management, cash flow oversight, payroll, tax compliance, and both accounts payable and receivable. He also leads HR functions such as new hire processes, employee support, and operational compliance across all properties.

With a deep understanding of both finance and people operations, Ian provides valuable insights that support sound decision-making and ensure a clear view of the company’s financial performance.

Darryl Szarka holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona, as well as an MBA from Arizona State University. Darryl also holds a general contractors license in the state of Arizona.

Darryl has acquired, designed and developed over 40 projects primarily from the office, industrial and lodging sectors. He is also a first deed of trust lender on multiple properties in the greater phoenix area.

Darryl has received two NAIOP awards for Office project and Industrial project of the year awards as well as the Tempe Beautification award. 

Bruno Salamone has 43 years experience in the state of Arizona in numerous areas including; Hospitality & Lodging, Apartment Development, Private money lending, Ranches, Commercial Real Estate, Subdivision acquisition and development, 1031 Exchanges, Leasing and Commercial Development.

Bruno also has 30 years experience as a commercial mortgage broker.