Name: Ayo Akinsete
Title: Managing Director / Vice President of Operations
Company, city: Dream Hollywood; Los Angeles, California
Number of employees: 250
Recent project: Dream Hollywood
First job: Football player for West Ham United in the U.K.
Little-known fact about you: I love music; sometimes people call me a jukebox. I DJ as a hobby.
Your Business
What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years? As awareness of environmental impact grows and weather patterns become more volatile, hotel companies will increasingly commit to sustainable building and operational practices. Expect a renewed focus on responsible sourcing, reduced single-use plastics and alternative materials that preserve guest comfort while minimizing environmental harm. Luxury and sustainability will continue to converge, proving they are not mutually exclusive.
Best career advice you’ve received: When you make a mistake, own it quickly and apologize. Transparency and accountability build trust and help you move forward.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field? Outwork your peers, behave ethically and perform the responsibilities of the role you want before you have it. Observe your colleagues and learn from their mistakes as well as their successes. That combination of hard work, integrity and careful observation has served me well.
Ayo Akinsete as a Traveler
Favorite travel memory or story: A recent trip to Positano with my wife remains unforgettable. The village unfolds vertically down the cliffs, its narrow streets framed by bougainvillea and lemon trees, with the Tyrrhenian Sea visible from nearly every vantage point. The setting was surreal, and the food and Aperol spritzes made the visit even more memorable.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Email the hotel directly with any requests, and, if possible, reach out to the general manager. The best hotels aim to be accommodating, and direct communication often yields the most helpful responses. We’re in the service business—don’t hesitate to ask.
Best advice for business travelers: Enroll in Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, and be sure to email your room and service preferences in advance. If you travel frequently to the same city, choose a preferred hotel and remain loyal: hotels typically reward repeat guests with upgrades, early check-in and late check-out. If you encounter problems during a stay, speak directly with the general manager. And if you visit Los Angeles, consider staying at Dream Hollywood.
About Dream Hollywood
Tell our readers about the philosophy of Dream Hotel Group. The core of Dream Hotel Group isn’t simply selling rooms; it’s creating immersive experiences that leave guests with memorable stories to share. Design and amenities matter, but the soul of a hotel comes from its people. Exceptional staff make guests feel special and welcomed, turning a well-designed property into a place with personality. Management’s responsibility is to support employees first; when staff feel valued and empowered, outstanding guest service naturally follows.
What can premium travelers expect from the hotel group in 2019? Dream Nashville opened in February in the city’s historic Printers Alley. Designed by Meyer Davis Studio and developed in partnership with 4PANT LLC and Dream Hotel Group, the 168-room property, including 21 suites, features six experiential dining and nightlife venues. The hotel contributes to downtown Nashville’s revitalization and offers programming that serves both guests and locals.
Dream Hotel Group includes a number of brands. Tell us about each. Dream Hotel Group aims to deliver forward-thinking design, service and guest experiences across market segments.
Dream Hotels represents the upper-upscale lifestyle brand, with individually curated properties shaped by their locations and crafted by renowned architects and interior designers. The brand appeals to discerning travelers seeking a cosmopolitan atmosphere with comfort and style.
Time Hotels target guests who appreciate progressive design and innovative dining in central urban locations. Boutique in spirit regardless of size, Time Hotels occupy a space between luxury and lifestyle with streamlined, modern offerings for upscale travelers.
The Chatwal delivers bespoke, five-star experiences with world-class interiors, wellness elements, haute cuisine and a deep respect for local culture. It focuses on highly personalized luxury in sought-after destinations.
Unscripted introduces a concept for creative, adventurous travelers in smaller or emerging markets. These properties emphasize design, programming and activation that reflect their neighborhoods, creating vibrant spaces for both visitors and local communities.