Benchmark Appoints Director of Operations at Founders Inn
HOUSTON, TX, February 21, 2007. Benchmark Hospitality International has announced the promotion of Melanie Bowman to director of operations for The Founders Inn. Ellen Ruane, Benchmark's general manager at the property, made the announcement.
"I am so pleased to welcome Melanie to her new role at The Founders Inn," said Ms. Ruane. "She brings broad experience in several operational departments within a hotel, which will serve her well in her new executive position here."
In her new role, Melanie Bowman is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Rooms Division at Founders Inn, as well as the new Flowering Almond Spa and the property's Catering department. She was previously director of conference services at the property, a position she held with great success over the past three years.
Ms. Bowman has also served as conference planning manager for Cheyenne Mountain Resort, a Benchmark Hospitality property located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was originally recruited to the resort as business center manager, following several years in positions of increasing responsibility for The Broadmoor, the landmark property also of Colorado Springs.
Melanie Bowman holds degrees in Business Management from Pikes Peak College and Travel Industry Fundamentals from Southeastern Academy in Kissimmee, Florida.
Boasting old-world charm accented by beautiful furnishings and antiques, The Founders Inn provides the appeal and warmth of a country inn with fine amenities and award-winning cuisine. The Inn's 240 guestrooms and suites include wireless Internet access, generous workspace and views of 26 landscaped acres. Select rooms include gas fireplaces, and views of the lake and English gardens. The Founders Inn is located at 5641 Indian River Road in Virginia Beach near exit 286B of I-264 East. For reservations and additional information, please call 800-926-4466 or visit www.foundersinn.com. The Founders Inn is managed by Benchmark Hospitality International.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
