About

Monty Bennett is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ashford Inc. (NYSE American: AINC), a real estate company specializing in hospitality and real estate. With over three decades of expertise, Monty Bennett stands as a prominent figure in the business world.  Monty’s experience and background in the hotel industry and contributed to his success. He has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills and entrepreneurial acumen, solidifying his position as an accomplished industry leader.

Current Role and Duties

At the helm of Ashford Inc., Bennett has cultivated an environment of success and growth for the company. Ashford, a Dallas-based diversified asset management company, specializes in the real estate and hospitality sectors. As an advisor to two NYSE-listed real estate investment trusts (REIT), namely Ashford Hospitality Trust (NYSE: AHT) and Braemar Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: BHR), the company has established itself as a key player in the industry. Collectively, these two REITs own an impressive portfolio of 109 hotels. Additionally, Ashford Inc. boasts a range of operating businesses that provide essential services to the real estate and hospitality industry. Bennett’s strategic vision and extensive expertise have been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and success. 

Bennett is focused on giving his investors meaningful options so that they can tailor their investment strategies. When steering his company, he’s guided by ethics, innovation, profit, engagement, and tenacity. These aren’t just buzzwords for him. It’s the core of his business. It’s his consistency, as well as his leadership, that has allowed Ashford Inc. to establish a reputation in the industry for excellence.

Career History

In 1992, Bennett joined Remington Hotels. Remington has always operated with an owner-centric mindset by delivering superior margins and house profit. Its track record of market penetration growth demonstrates a unique understanding of the hotel business, in all phases of the economic cycle. Monty’s leadership for Remington brought a spirit of collaboration and innovation.

As the CEO of Ashford, Bennett embodies a relentless commitment to achieving exceptional results. He is steadfast in his pursuit of operational efficiency, financial growth, and market positioning, which have greatly contributed to Ashford Inc.’s position as a formidable force in the industry.

His exceptional industry knowledge and invaluable contributions have earned him widespread recognition and respect. Actively involved in various professional organizations, he plays an influential role in shaping industry standards and promoting best practices. His active engagement within these organizations serves as a testament to his dedication and commitment to fostering growth and development within the hospitality sector.

Academic History

Bennett’s academic background further underscores his exceptional capabilities. He holds a master’s degree in business administration from Cornell’s S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management, and he graduated with distinction from the School of Hotel Administration, also at Cornell. As a life member of the Cornell Hotel Society, Bennett continues to stay connected to his alma mater and contribute to the advancement of education and industry knowledge. 

Philanthropy/Charitable Involvement

Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, Mr. Bennett is equally dedicated to making a positive impact through philanthropy. He wholeheartedly supports charitable causes and community initiatives, reflecting his unwavering commitment to societal well-being beyond the realm of business. Through his extensive involvement in numerous charitable organizations, Bennett advocates for civic engagement, with a particular focus on children and educational equality. His philanthropic efforts have had a profound impact on the Dallas-Fort Worth community, showcasing his genuine compassion and desire to give back. 

Whether through the Ashford companies or on his own, he’s given to the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, Adopt a Needy Family (San Antonio), Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Dallas Champions Academy, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Jackie Robinson Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Junior League of Dallas, Project Lyme, Ronald McDonald House of Houston, Runway for Rising, Salvation Army, Sky Ranch, Special Olympics, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and Teach for America. This is just a small selection of all the causes that Bennett supports. He has become known for his generosity to the city.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Outside of his professional endeavors, Bennett cherishes his family life. He resides with his wife, Sarah Zubiate Bennett, and their four children at their Dallas home and a 2,000-acre ranch in Athens, Texas, where he actively participates in the local community and engages in various personal interests.

In conclusion, Monty Bennett’s extraordinary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his position as an influential figure within the hospitality industry. Through his remarkable achievements at Ashford Inc., active involvement in professional organizations, and dedication to philanthropy, Bennett continues to shape the industry, inspire others, and make a positive impact on society. With his remarkable track record and unwavering dedication, Bennett is a true visionary leader in the hospitality industry.