New York – July 30, 2013?- Paul S. Tormey, Regional Vice President at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, is pleased to announce that George Cozonis has been named Managing Director of The Plaza, a New York icon and designated National Historic Landmark. Bringing more than 29 years of experience to The Plaza, Mr. Cozonis, who started in May 2013, is responsible for the ongoing operations of the urban resort, located in the heart of Manhattan at the crossroads of Central Park South and Fifth Avenue.
“I am honored to be part of The Plaza, which is cherished by so many people around the world,” said Mr. Cozonis. “Guests, patrons and fellow New Yorkers have created memories with us, many of which have been shared and recreated with multiple generations. It is truly a privilege to return to New York City, to be the Managing Director of The Plaza and work with the talented and dynamic team that restored her glamour.”
Prior to joining The Plaza, Mr. Cozonis was General Manager of W South Beach, in Miami Beach, Florida beginning with the highly successful opening in 2009. Mr. Cozonis began his career with Omni Hotels in 1983 as a management trainee and proceeded to work up the ladder to General Manager of three different properties including, Omni Independence Park, Philadelphia, Omni Colonnade, Miami – Coral Gables and Omni Houston. After nearly 20 years with Omni Hotels, Mr. Cozonis joined Sonesta Bayfront Hotel Coconut Grove in 2004 as the Vice President & General Manager. He also served as General Manager of The Atlantic Resort & Spa, Fort Lauderdale, Florida and the W Retreat & Spa Vieques Island, Puerto Rico leading the pre-opening task force.
Mr. Cozonis has been active in numerous community organizations including serving on the Board of Directors of the Greater Miami & the Beaches Hotel Association, the Tourism Development Council of Miami-Dade County, the Coral Gables Cultural Affairs Council and numerous chambers of commerce. He has served as Chair of the Visitor Industry Council and a member of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau.
A native of Greece, Mr. Cozonis holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration, Cum Laude from University of New Hampshire. He has also completed the General Managers’ Program from Cornell University and is a Licensed Community Association Manager (CAM) in the State of Florida. He currently resides in Manhattan.
Source Hotel Online