LEADERSHIP


A&R Group is led by a team of experienced operators and builders who bring deep industry knowledge and a shared commitment to disciplined, long-term growth across every aspect of the business.


Ken Patel

Ken Patel

Chief Executive Officer

Ken Patel is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of A&R Group, where he leads the company's strategic direction and long-term growth.

After immigrating to the United States in 1996, he began his career in hospitality by managing a family-owned hotel before acquiring his first property in 1998. That foundation established a disciplined, hands-on approach that continues to define A&R's model today.

Under his leadership, the company has grown into a vertically integrated platform operating a portfolio of nationally recognized hotel brands across the Southeast and beyond.

Angela Patel

Angela Patel

Principal

Angela Patel serves as Principal of A&R Group, where she plays a key role in shaping the company's operational strategy and portfolio performance.

She began her career working hands-on in the family's hotel operations, gaining experience across every aspect of property-level execution. That foundation informs her leadership today, particularly in revenue strategy, sales, and operational oversight.

Known for her deep understanding of hotel performance and team development, she works closely with leadership to drive consistent results across the portfolio.

Robert Avila

Robert Avila

President of Hospitality

Robert Avila leads hospitality operations across A&R Group's growing portfolio of hotel assets.

He oversees all aspects of property performance, including revenue management, sales, and day-to-day operations, while managing financial reporting and communication with ownership partners.

Known for his people-first leadership style, Avila focuses on building strong, aligned teams that deliver consistent results and elevated guest experiences across the portfolio.

Brenda Johnson

Brenda Johnson

President of A&R Design

Brenda Johnson leads A&R Design, overseeing interior design strategy and execution across the company's hotel portfolio.

With a background in both design and hospitality operations, she brings a practical, performance-driven approach to creating environments that balance brand standards with guest experience and long-term durability.

Her work ensures consistency, quality, and cost efficiency across every project—from initial concept through final installation.

Zach Hoyt

Zach Hoyt

President of Development

Zach Hoyt leads development efforts at A&R Group, overseeing site acquisition, feasibility analysis, and project execution from concept through delivery.

With a focus on disciplined underwriting and market fundamentals, he ensures that every project aligns with the company's long-term investment strategy and operational capabilities.

His leadership keeps projects on schedule, on budget, and positioned for sustainable performance from day one.


Meet The Team

A&R Ownership

A&R Support Services

Autumn Burch
Darshan Patel

A&R Development

Zach Hoyt
Dusty Cowart
Ryan Patel
Susan Bartholomew

A&R Design

Brenda Johnson
Hadley Bunch
Ryan Fendt

A&R Commercial Laundry

Jerry Brayfield
Taurus Fluker
Courtney Griffis

A&R Hospitality Management

Hannah Sremba
Katie Northcutt-Edwards
Robert Avila
Deep Patel
Lori Hockman
Candice Maness
Lindsey Korff
Lori Hockman
Deep Pathak

A&R Construction

Harsh Joshi
Nikhil Patel