DiamondRock Hospitality Company has announced the appointment of Stephanie Lepori to its Board of Directors, effective January 15, 2025. This strategic move highlights the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team with seasoned professionals from the hospitality and gaming industries.

DiamondRock Hospitality Company Welcomes Stephanie Lepori to Board of Directors

Stephanie Lepori: A Proven Leader in Hospitality and Financial Management

With nearly three decades of expertise in financial management, strategic growth, and operational oversight, Stephanie Lepori brings a wealth of experience to DiamondRock Hospitality’s Board. Currently serving as the Chief Administrative and Accounting Officer at Caesars Entertainment, Lepori has a distinguished career marked by her pivotal role in transforming business operations and driving growth initiatives.

A Track Record of Strategic Excellence

At Caesars Entertainment, Lepori has been instrumental in executing large-scale transactions, including high-profile acquisitions and divestitures. Her responsibilities have spanned critical areas such as:

• Accounting and Compliance: Ensuring rigorous adherence to financial standards and regulatory requirements.
• Risk Management: Mitigating organizational risks through proactive strategies.
• Human Resources: Overseeing talent management and organizational development.

Lepori’s efforts have directly contributed to Caesars’ expansion initiatives, where she has expertly integrated new platforms and optimized operations following mergers. Her ability to streamline processes and enhance efficiency has established her as a leader in the field.

Endorsement from DiamondRock’s Leadership

Jeffrey J. Donnelly, Chief Executive Officer of DiamondRock Hospitality, expressed his enthusiasm about Lepori’s appointment, stating: “We are very pleased to have Stephanie join our Board. With nearly three decades of experience in the hospitality and gaming industries, she brings a wealth of expertise in financial management, strategic growth, and operational leadership to the Board.”

This addition aligns with DiamondRock’s vision of leveraging industry experts to enhance value for shareholders and foster long-term growth.

Commitment to Community and Industry Excellence

Beyond her corporate achievements, Stephanie Lepori is deeply involved in community and philanthropic initiatives. She serves as a Community Board Member for the Truckee Meadows Boys and Girls Club and is set to assume the role of Pacific Trustee for the Boys and Girls Club of America in 2025. Her dedication to community development underscores her holistic approach to leadership.

Additionally, Lepori will chair the Audit and Compliance Committee for Renown Health, where she also serves on the Board of Directors. This role further highlights her expertise in governance and compliance, skills that will undoubtedly benefit DiamondRock Hospitality’s operations.

Implications for DiamondRock Hospitality’s Future

The appointment of Stephanie Lepori signals DiamondRock Hospitality’s intent to:

• Enhance Financial Oversight: Leveraging Lepori’s extensive experience in accounting and compliance to strengthen financial governance.
• Drive Strategic Growth: Tapping into her expertise in large-scale transactions and operational integration to identify and capitalize on growth opportunities.
• Foster Operational Excellence: Utilizing her proven track record of optimizing processes to improve efficiency across the organization.

As the company continues to navigate a competitive hospitality landscape, Lepori’s insights and leadership will be pivotal in driving success.

Stephanie Lepori and the Broader Industry Context

Lepori’s appointment comes at a time when the hospitality industry is experiencing significant transformation. Recent collaborations, such as Caesars Entertainment’s partnership with Bragg Gaming to develop proprietary online casino games, underscore the growing intersection between traditional hospitality and innovative technology solutions. Lepori’s ability to navigate these dynamics positions her as a valuable asset to DiamondRock Hospitality.

Bringing Visionary Leadership to the Board

DiamondRock’s decision to include leaders with diverse expertise ensures the company remains adaptable and forward-thinking. With Lepori’s comprehensive understanding of financial frameworks, operational strategy, and industry trends, the company is well-positioned to pursue initiatives that resonate with modern travelers and investors.

Conclusion: The Appointment

Stephanie Lepori’s appointment to DiamondRock Hospitality Company’s Board of Directors marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey toward sustained growth and innovation. Her unparalleled expertise in the hospitality and gaming sectors, combined with her commitment to community and governance, will undoubtedly drive the company’s mission forward. DiamondRock’s strategic leadership expansion reflects its unwavering dedication to excellence and shareholder value.

FAQs About Stephanie Lepori’s Appointment to DiamondRock Hospitality Company’s Board of Directors

1. Who is Stephanie Lepori?

Stephanie Lepori is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of experience in financial management, strategic growth, and operational leadership. She currently serves as the Chief Administrative and Accounting Officer at Caesars Entertainment.

2. What is DiamondRock Hospitality Company?

DiamondRock Hospitality Company is a leading real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in upscale lodging properties. The company focuses on creating value for shareholders through strategic investments in the hospitality industry.

3. When will Stephanie Lepori join DiamondRock’s Board of Directors?

Stephanie Lepori will join DiamondRock Hospitality Company’s Board of Directors on January 15, 2025.

4. What expertise does Stephanie Lepori bring to DiamondRock?

Stephanie Lepori brings extensive experience in financial management, accounting, compliance, risk management, and human resources. She is also known for her leadership in executing large-scale transactions and optimizing operations.

5. What roles has Lepori held previously?

Lepori currently serves as the Chief Administrative and Accounting Officer at Caesars Entertainment. In this role, she has played a key part in overseeing acquisitions, mergers, and operational integrations.

6. How will Lepori’s appointment benefit DiamondRock Hospitality?

Her appointment is expected to:

• Enhance financial oversight and governance.
• Drive strategic growth through expertise in large-scale transactions.
• Improve operational efficiency and streamline processes.

7. What leadership roles has Stephanie Lepori held outside of her corporate career?

Lepori serves as a Community Board Member for the Truckee Meadows Boys and Girls Club and is set to become the Pacific Trustee for the Boys and Girls Club of America in 2025. She also chairs the Audit and Compliance Committee for Renown Health.

8. What does DiamondRock’s leadership say about Lepori’s appointment?

Jeffrey J. Donnelly, CEO of DiamondRock Hospitality, expressed enthusiasm about her addition, emphasizing her extensive experience in the hospitality and gaming industries and her ability to contribute to the company’s strategic goals.

9. How does Stephanie Lepori’s appointment align with DiamondRock’s goals?

Her expertise in financial governance, strategic growth, and operational optimization aligns with DiamondRock’s commitment to enhancing shareholder value and pursuing long-term growth.

10. What impact will Lepori have on DiamondRock’s future?

Stephanie Lepori’s insights are expected to help DiamondRock navigate the evolving hospitality landscape, capitalize on growth opportunities, and maintain operational excellence.

11. How is the hospitality industry evolving, and how does Lepori fit into this context?

The hospitality industry is increasingly integrating innovative technology, such as Caesars Entertainment’s partnership with Bragg Gaming. Lepori’s experience in navigating such trends positions her as an asset in helping DiamondRock adapt and thrive.

12. What does Lepori’s appointment signify for DiamondRock Hospitality?

Her appointment underscores DiamondRock’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team with industry experts, ensuring the company remains competitive and forward-thinking.

13. How does Lepori’s community involvement reflect her leadership style?

Lepori’s active participation in community initiatives demonstrates her holistic approach to leadership, combining professional excellence with a dedication to community development.

14. What committees will Lepori serve on at DiamondRock?

While specific committee assignments at DiamondRock were not detailed, Lepori’s background in audit and compliance governance suggests she may contribute to similar areas within the company.

15. Why is this appointment significant for DiamondRock’s shareholders?

By adding a leader with proven expertise in financial and operational strategies, DiamondRock reinforces its focus on delivering long-term value to shareholders.