Leadership
Leadership
Our Experts
At GarnetHotels, our commitment to exceptional service is ingrained in every member of our team. Regardless of their specific role or area of focus, each team member is united by a shared set of goals and values aimed at delivering unparalleled service to our partners.
Our Team
Zia Jaffrey
CEO
Zia Jaffrey
CEO
Zia has more than 25 years of hospitality experience. He previously served as the VP of Human Resources and the Regional Vice President of Operations with Canadian-based LIXI Hotels Group where he oversaw portfolio of Marriott/Hilton and Starwood properties. Zia has been a General Manager of elite branded Starwood and Marriott full service and select service hotels throughout New Jersey and New York area.
Zia earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Brooklyn College of New York. He holds multi brand GM certification for Starwood/Marriott and Hilton.
Denise Connolly
Controller
Denise Connolly
Controller
Denise spent four years supporting her athletic son and his High School varsity basketball team. Denise is proud mother of BA Magna Cum Lada graduate from Rutgers. In her spare time Denise loves interior designing and horror movies.
Elizabeth Perez
Director of Human Resources
Elizabeth Perez
Director of Human Resources
Her role in opening the Wave Resort in Long Branch, NJ, in 2019 showcased her ability to lead and thrive in dynamic environments. Perez's diverse experience has allowed her to understand and prioritize the importance of fostering a positive culture within organizations.
Perez advocates for a healthy workplace environment where transparency and inclusivity are key values. She believes in maintaining an open-door policy as a natural and integral part of her leadership style. Perez holds an associate's degree from Hudson County Community College (HCCC) and both a bachelor's and master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Perez is also an adjunct professor at HCCC, where she imparts her knowledge and passion for human resources to aspiring students.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Perez finds joy in being a mother to her two children, Katelyn and Ezra, who are her pride and joy. She has a love for the outdoors and indulges in collecting Funko Pops. Embracing the philosophy of authenticity, Perez finds inspiration in the words of Oscar Wilde, "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."
Kurang Shah
Director of Engineering and Project Development
Kurang Shah
Director of Engineering and Project Development
In his current role at Garnet Hotels, Kurang is tasked with expanding the company’s management portfolio. Drawing on his extensive industry knowledge, he actively contributes to acquisitions and asset management initiatives, driving the company's growth and success.
Kurang earned his education throughout at India (Gujarat & Maharastra) and New Jersey from NJIT.
Shauna Gioia
Director of Sales and Marketing
Shauna Gioia
Director of Sales and Marketing
An adept strategist, Shauna excels in identifying untapped business opportunities, orchestrating initiatives that elevate sales performance, and consistently exceeding benchmarks in customer satisfaction. Her unwavering commitment to genuine hospitality underscores every endeavor, as she prioritizes customer service and the cultivation of enduring relationships.
A proud alum of Johnson & Wales University, Shauna holds a bachelor’s degree in Travel & Tourism Marketing, a testament to her profound dedication to the field. With her proven track record of success and passion for delivering unparalleled guest experiences, Shauna continues to shape the landscape of hospitality, embodying the ethos of service excellence and innovation.
Anthony Braswell
Director of Revenue Management.
Anthony Braswell
Director of Revenue Management.
Throughout his career, Anthony has demonstrated an exceptional ability to maximize revenue through dynamic pricing strategies, market analysis, and inventory control. He has successfully implemented revenue management systems that have led to significant increases in RevPAR, Occupancy, higher ADR and overall profitability for the properties under his management.
Previously Anthony has served as the Regional Director of Revenue Management for Real Hospitality, Area Revenue Manager for RevRoc, Hersha Hospitality and Magna Hospitality.
In his current role at Garnet Hotels, Anthony oversees all aspects of revenue management, from pricing strategy to demand forecasting and market segmentation. He collaborates closely with sales, marketing, and operations teams to ensure a cohesive approach to revenue generation and guest satisfaction.
Anthony is certified revenue manager for both Marriott and Hilton brands. Outside of his professional life, Anthony enjoys traveling, gourmet cooking, and volunteering with local non-profits dedicated to sustainable tourism.
Jeremy Goodrich
Director of Extended Stay
Jeremy Goodrich
Director of Extended Stay
Jeremy is known for his exceptional leadership skills, inspiring and leading high performing teams to achieve their full potential. He fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, driving a positive impact on both revenue and customer satisfaction metrics.
With a proven track record of success in the hospitality sector, Jeremy brings a unique blend of strategic vision, operational expertise, and customer-centric approach to his role as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, making him a valuable asset to our organization.
Holly Acosta
Manager - Payroll
Holly Acosta
Manager - Payroll
Holly has held HR Manager and Director status in both select and full-service hotels. Her brand experience includes Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Best Western and Independent Boutique Hotels. Holly earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from FAU University of Florida.
Raju Brahmbhatt
Director F&B - Banquet
Raju Brahmbhatt
Director F&B - Banquet
Prior to his role at Garnet Hotels Raju held key positions in renowned hotels and resorts, where he honed his skills in menu planning, inventory management, staff training, and customer relations. He is known for his ability to foster a positive work culture, motivate teams, and exceed financial targets.
With a commitment to continuous improvement and a customer-centric approach, Raju strives to elevate the dining experience while driving business growth and profitability for the hotels.
Regional Director of Operations
Terron Jones
Regional Director of Operations
Terron Jones
With a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations, revenue management, and guest relations, Terron has a proven track record of driving operational efficiency and profitability across diverse hotel portfolios. He possess a keen eye for detail, coupled with strong leadership skills, enabling him to inspire and empower teams to achieve excellence in service delivery.
Prior to his current role, Terron held various leadership positions with LIXI Hospitality Group/Island Hospitality Management and Janus Hotels & Resorts. Including roles in revenue management, and guest services. He has successfully implemented innovative strategies to optimize revenue generation, streamline operations, and enhance guest satisfaction.
Terron holds a Bachelor of Science Finance Management degree from Lincoln University PA, providing him with a solid foundation in hospitality management principles. He is dedicated to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices, continuously seeking opportunities for professional development and growth.
Driven by a passion for hospitality excellence, Terron is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the hotels under his purview. He strives to uphold the highest standards of quality and service, ensuring that each guest's stay is memorable and rewarding.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Terron enjoys playing basketball and attending community events.
Ali Khan
Director of IT
Ali Khan
Director of IT