StepStone Hospitality Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

StepStone Hospitality has 5 executives leading key functions including strategic management, operational oversight, asset development, and financial performance.

Committed to excellence in full-service hotel and restaurant operations, StepStone Hospitality delivers enhanced value through a unique combination of hands-on management, world-class asset strategy, and deep food and beverage expertise.

Leadership Roles at StepStone Hospitality

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Blair Wills
  • Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner - Thomas Russo
  • Chief Financial Officer - Gary Obert
  • Chief Operating Officer - Michael Broadhurst
  • Managing Director - Brian McGrath
  • Blair Wills - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Blair Wills, the President & Chief Executive Officer at StepStone Hospitality, directs the overarching corporate strategy for the entire portfolio of full-service hotel and restaurant assets. Wills architects long-term growth initiatives while maintaining a rigorous focus on margin expansion and guest satisfaction across all managed properties. By aligning operational goals with owner objectives, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent performance across diverse North American markets. Blair Wills monitors key performance indicators to drive revenue enhancement and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the company's market position and service standards. Through the implementation of high-level management protocols, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the competitive advantage of the firm. Ultimately, Wills fosters a culture of excellence that permeates every level of the organization, ensuring that the company remains a leader in the hospitality sector.
    Blair Wills

    Thomas Russo - Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner

    Thomas Russo, the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner at StepStone Hospitality, oversees the strategic asset management and investment partnerships that define the company's market presence. Russo drives the acquisition and development pipeline, ensuring that every property aligns with the firm's high standards for full-service hospitality. The Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner manages complex stakeholder relationships, balancing the needs of property owners with the operational requirements of the management team. Thomas Russo evaluates new market opportunities to expand the company's footprint across the United States. By focusing on capital allocation and asset optimization, the Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner maximizes the long-term value of the portfolio. This role requires deep industry insight to navigate shifting economic landscapes and maintain profitability. Through strategic foresight, Russo ensures that the company continues to deliver superior returns while upholding the reputation of the brand in the competitive lodging industry.

    Gary Obert - Chief Financial Officer

    Gary Obert, the Chief Financial Officer at StepStone Hospitality, directs the financial strategy, accounting operations, and capital planning for the entire organization. Obert oversees the budgeting process, financial reporting, and treasury functions to ensure the fiscal health of the company and its managed assets. The Chief Financial Officer provides critical analysis of revenue streams and expense structures, enabling the executive team to make informed decisions regarding margin expansion and investment opportunities. Gary Obert manages relationships with financial institutions and investors, ensuring transparency and alignment with corporate objectives. This role involves the development of robust financial models to support the company's growth initiatives and long-term strategic goals. By maintaining strict oversight of financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risk and optimizes the allocation of capital across the portfolio. Through precise financial management, Obert supports the company's mission to deliver enhanced value to clients while maintaining a strong and sustainable balance sheet.
    Gary Obert

    Michael Broadhurst - Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Broadhurst, the Chief Operating Officer at StepStone Hospitality, manages the internal scaling and operational infrastructure required to support the company's growing portfolio of full-service hotels. Broadhurst directs the implementation of standardized operating procedures, focusing on labor efficiency, supply chain optimization, and cost control measures. The Chief Operating Officer monitors property-level performance to ensure that every location achieves its revenue targets and margin goals. Michael Broadhurst collaborates with department heads to refine service delivery models and enhance the overall guest experience. This leadership role involves the continuous improvement of operational systems to support rapid expansion across various geographic regions. By analyzing performance data, the Chief Operating Officer identifies areas for process refinement and resource allocation. Through the application of rigorous management standards, Broadhurst ensures that the company maintains operational excellence, providing a stable foundation for the firm's continued success in the highly competitive hospitality and lodging market.

    Brian McGrath - Managing Director

    Brian McGrath, the Managing Director at StepStone Hospitality, executes the tactical deployment of operational resources across the company's diverse hotel portfolio. McGrath supervises regional performance metrics, ensuring that each property meets established benchmarks for guest satisfaction and revenue growth. The Managing Director coordinates with property-level leadership to implement standardized service protocols and food and beverage initiatives. Brian McGrath drives the integration of new assets into the company's management framework, facilitating seamless transitions and immediate operational improvements. This role involves constant assessment of market trends to adjust service offerings and maintain a competitive edge. By fostering strong communication channels between corporate headquarters and individual hotel teams, the Managing Director ensures alignment with the broader company mission. Through diligent oversight of daily operations, McGrath maintains the high quality of service that defines the firm's reputation within the hospitality industry, consistently delivering value to clients and guests alike.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitality

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding StepStone Hospitality Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads StepStone Hospitality?
    StepStone Hospitality is led by Blair Wills (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Russo (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner) and Gary Obert (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of StepStone Hospitality’s executive team?
    The executive team of StepStone Hospitality includes leaders such as Blair Wills (President & Chief Executive Officer), Thomas Russo (Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner), Gary Obert (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does StepStone Hospitality have?
    StepStone Hospitality has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in StepStone Hospitality’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of StepStone Hospitality includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Partner, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director.