In his return to Masters of Moments, Sean Hehir joins Jake Wurzak for a deeper dive into the future of hospitality, technology, and investment strategy. Building on their first conversation, Sean shares how his firm has embraced AI to transform operations and asset management, using data to predict market shifts and enhance efficiency across a global portfolio. He also discusses the evolving landscape of hotel investing, from luxury experiential travel to large-scale renovations, offering candid insights into leadership, culture, and the importance of partnering with the right people.
They discuss:
• How AI and predictive data are reshaping hotel asset management
• The rise of experiential travel and why it’s redefining hospitality investment
• Strategic lessons from major hotel renovations like The Diplomat and The White Barn Inn
• The balance between people, culture, and technology in scaling a global firm
• The future of hospitality investment, from Europe to experiential and wellness-driven models
Links:
Sean on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-hehir/
Trinity Investments - https://www.trinityinvestments.com/
Connect & Invest with Jake:
Follow Jake on X: https://x.com/JWurzak
1 on 1 coaching with Jake: https://www.jakewurzak.com/coaching
Learn How to Invest with DoveHill: https://bit.ly/3yg8Pwo
Topics:
(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:01:32) - AI in business: Transforming operations
(00:04:06) - Asset management and predictive analytics
(00:05:16) - Hospitality industry trends and adaptations
(00:10:22) - Luxury vs. commodity hotels
(00:14:12) - Strategizing hotel acquisitions
(00:23:22) - Navigating challenges and maintaining culture
(00:24:54) - Capital strategy and market dynamics
(00:41:35) - Challenges of raising a first-time fund
(00:42:15) - Finding a niche in hospitality real estate
(00:43:17) - Balancing fundraising and deal focus
(00:44:40) - Sourcing deals: Marketed vs. off-market
(00:46:35) - Choosing the right partners
(00:48:16) - The Standard in London deal
(00:50:24) - Maintaining entrepreneurial culture
(00:54:39) - Biggest mistakes and wins in asset management
(00:57:40) - Impact of politics on investing strategy
(00:58:38) - Innovative renovation strategies
(01:00:52) - Exploring new opportunities in hospitality
(01:03:39) - The importance of service in luxury hotels
(01:09:12) - Future aspirations and gratitude
(01:10:35) - Favorite hotels and unique experiences
