Irvine-based Montage Hotels & Resorts recently named Rick Riess managing director of Montage Laguna Beach, its flagship resort.
He’s a 35-year hospitality industry veteran who comes to Montage from a similar position at a resort on Sea Island, Ga., where his tenure saw the property earn and maintain a Forbes Five-Star rating for its hotel, spa and restaurant.
Riess previously served as president and chief executive at Plumpjack Group in San Francisco, which operates resorts, wineries, restaurants and retail, and develops real estate.
The managing director position is new at Montage Laguna Beach. Riess arrives as Todd Orlich leaves as general manager of Montage Laguna Beach for the same job at Montage Beverly Hills.
Montage Laguna Beach doesn’t plan to hire a GM under Riess, according to a spokesperson.
