Global restaurateur HMSHost, part of Avolta AG and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, today announces the appointment of concessions industry veteran Brett Kelly as Vice President of Business Development for food and beverage across North America.
A seasoned and respected senior executive in aviation and hospitality, Kelly will play a crucial role in HMSHost’s growth as a leadership team member charged with winning and retaining airport contracts, maintaining landlord relations, and improving portfolio real estate values across nearly 80 airports in North America.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brett to HMSHost,” said Derryl Benton, Chief Development Officer, North America, Avolta. “I am proud to have known and worked alongside Brett for many years and know that his expertise and leadership in our industry will be instrumental as we continue to enhance the traveler experience in every market we serve. His vision perfectly aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional service, quality, and experiences that make the journey as exciting as the destination.”
Kelly joins HMSHost after a distinguished career in airport concessions and commercial development spanning more than 25 years, most recently as Managing Partner of Harper Elan Business Consulting. During his decade-long tenure supporting the concessions program at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Kelly served as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operations Officer, and Vice President and Asset Manager for Fraport. In these capacities, he was responsible for the financial and operational performance of the company. As COO, Kelly oversaw the development, leasing, and operations of six concessions contracts. He managed the entirety of the Fraport USA field organization with direct responsibility for the management, operations, leasing, and state contract compliance for 110 BWI locations. Between 2011 and 2021, he increased project rental revenue from $15 million to $24 million.
Kelly also held progressively important positions at General Growth Properties, one of the most extensive REIT shopping center development and management companies in the United States. He rose to Vice President of Local Leasing during his tenure, where he supervised four group vice presidents and 42 negotiators throughout the U.S., generating $150 million in annual leasing revenue.
“I am excited to join HMSHost, a company renowned for its innovation and excellence in the travel dining space,” said Kelly. “I look forward to working with the talented team to build on the company’s success and explore new opportunities for partnership and growth.”
