In this episode, hosts David Millili and Steve Carran sit down with Zack Gharib, the President of Red Roof, to explore leadership, innovation, and the future of hospitality.

Zack shares his incredible journey — from growing up in Lebanon and discovering his passion for hotels, to leading one of America’s most recognized hospitality brands. Learn how Red Roof is embracing AI-driven technology, enhancing the guest experience, and building a culture of genuine relationships and real results.

Discover what it takes to thrive in hotel management, lead through change, and balance guest satisfaction with franchisee success. Zack also opens up about his leadership lessons from Mr. Marriott, his transition from Marriott and La Quinta to Red Roof, and why relationships and culture remain at the heart of hospitality.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Red Roof is using AI and Hotel IQ to optimize pricing and revenue management
The importance of team culture, leadership, and franchise relationships
How technology is transforming the guest experience in 2025 and beyond
Insights into Red Roof’s new mobile app, loyalty program, and guest analytics initiatives
Why authentic leadership and passion are key to long-term success in hospitality

Watch the FULL EPISODE on YouTube: https://youtu.be/V8hnpGv2IIA

Links:

Zack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-gharib/
Red Roof: https://www.redroof.com/

For full show notes head to: https://themodernhotelier.com/episode/220

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Connect with Steve and David:
Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%F0%9F%8E...
David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mil.

#220: Leading Red Roof: Insights from the Best Budget Hotel Brand | with Zack Gharib

The Modern Hotelier

#220: Leading Red Roof: Insights from the Best Budget Hotel Brand | with Zack Gharib