Connor Smith
Vice President, Masterbrand Strategy
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Connor Smith joined IHG Hotels & Resorts as Vice President, Masterbrand Strategy in 2021, leading the brand, creative and communication strategies for the launch of the company’s new Masterbrand positioning of 19 brands and over 6,000 properties. Following the height of the pandemic, Connor played a critical role in developing and launching an inaugural Masterbrand concept for IHG, including his innovative vision for the company’s multi-million dollar ‘Guest How you Guest’ campaign. He recently spearheaded the global brand, marketing and communications strategies for the reimagined IHG One Rewards loyalty program – now one of the most rewarding and cutting-edge loyalty programs in the industry. He’s also behind IHG’s new partnership strategy, designed to reach and provide value to the next generation of travelers; the company has collaborated with Live Nation’s music festivals like Lollapalooza, Governor’s Ball and Wilderness Festival as well as sports venues like the US Open, Major League Soccer and the Europe Rugby Champions Cup. Prior to joining IHG, Connor led the brand team at IHG’s Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, starting as a Brand Manager and eventually leading a talented team of communicators as Vice President, Brand + Marketing.
Career Highlights
Champions LGBTQIA+ efforts through strategic partnerships including The Trevor Project, a partnership still in play today, and Frameline Film Festival
Served as Brand Advisor to the San Francisco LGBT Community Center’s Board of Directors for over a decade
Featured in Marketing Week, CMO.com, Skift, Little Black Book and Hotelier Magazine
Panelist on Siegel+Gale’s (global brand strategy, design and experience firm) Future of Branding Roundtable Series: Pride Edition
