Steve Joyce has joined Arkhaus, developer of waterfront and overwater resort experiences, as senior hospitality advisor and investor.
In addition to his advisory role, Joyce has made a personal investment in Arkhaus.
Joyce serves as executive chairman of third-party hotel operator Aimbridge Hospitality, managing more than 1,500 properties across more than 65 countries and representing major global hotel brands.
Before assuming the chairmanship of Aimbridge, Joyce spent nearly a decade as president and CEO of Choice Hotels International, where he expanded the portfolio from nine to 13 brands and grew the company to more than 6,700 hotels in over 45 countries.
That tenure followed a 25-year career at Marriott International, where he rose to executive vice president of global development.
He has also served as CEO of Dine Brands Global and CEO of RE/MAX Holdings.
Sourcing and negotiation
In his role at Arkhaus, Joyce will advise on the sourcing and negotiation of best-in-class partners — including operators, brands, technology providers and hospitality specialists — as Arkhaus works to establish Arkhaus Resorts as a new category of destination resort experience.
“Steve doesn’t just know this industry — he currently chairs the company that operates more hotels than anyone else on earth,” said Sam Payrovi, founder and CEO of Arkhaus.
“His decision to personally invest in Arkhaus speaks louder than any endorsement we could ask for. He understands exactly what we’re building and we are honored to have him helping us shape it.”
Waterfront and overwater resort space
Joyce added: “Arkhaus is doing something I haven’t seen before.
“The waterfront and overwater resort space is massively underserved at the level of quality and experience this team is targeting.
“I invested because I believe in the vision — and because I know from decades in this industry how transformative the right partnerships can be.”
Joyce’s involvement comes as Italian design house Pininfarina leads resort design for Arkhaus and American shipbuilder and fabricator Lyman Morse oversees construction.
Joyce will help the company finalise the last partnerships.
