JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa announced the appointment of four distinguished hospitality professionals to lead its food and beverage operations, marking a new era of culinary excellence for the prestigious property.
Lawrence Close joins as assistant director of food and beverage, bringing more than three decades of hospitality expertise to the resort in the Summerlin area of Las Vegas. Close’s remarkable career includes a 20-year tenure as general manager at The Palm Restaurant in the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, where he drove annual revenue to an industry-leading $14 million. As general contractor, he also orchestrated a $3 million renovation project in 2016. Most recently, Close served as West Coast regional director of operations for The One Group, overseeing five STK locations with combined annual sales exceeding $40 million.
Leading the culinary team as executive chef, Joseph Hamel brings more than 29 years of professional cooking and kitchen management experience. A graduate of the prestigious New England Culinary Institute, Hamel previously served as executive chef at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Before his time at the Rio, he oversaw operations at Caesars Entertainment across multiple venues, including signature restaurants from celebrity chef brands Guy Fieri, Gordon Ramsay, Giada, and Bobby Flay. His leadership philosophy centers on fostering team excellence while maintaining the highest food quality and service standards. His hands-on approach and commitment to continuous improvement align perfectly with JW Marriott’s dedication to exceptional dining experiences.
Dan Boyer was recently named general manager of the resort’s Hawthorn Grill. Since making Las Vegas home in 1996, Boyer has worked alongside some of the most respected names in the culinary world. His journey through the city’s renowned restaurant scene has taken him from the authentic Italian flavors of Bertolini’s Trattoria to the innovative seafood creations at Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood. Boyer refined his craft in Thomas Keller’s acclaimed Bouchon, mastered the art of fine dining at Mastro’s Ocean Club, and embraced modern American cuisine at David Chang’s Majordomo. Most recently, he brought his expertise to Echo and Rig Steakhouse, continuing to build on nearly three decades of experience in Las Vegas’ dynamic food scene.
Jim Seely rounds out the team as marketing manager, leveraging more than 20 years of hospitality and marketing expertise. A dual graduate of UNLV with degrees in hotel administration and fine arts, Seely most recently served as marketing and sales director at Lee Canyon, where he created landmark community events like Mountain Fest and the Chris Ruby Cup. His innovative approach to food and beverage marketing, including strategic partnerships with premium beverage companies and local craft breweries, has consistently driven guest engagement and revenue growth.
“This exceptional team brings together decades of experience and proven success in Las Vegas’ competitive hospitality market,” said Michelle McHugh, general manager at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa. “Their combined expertise will elevate our food and beverage program to new heights while maintaining the sophisticated service our guests expect from the JW Marriott brand.”
The new leadership team will oversee all aspects of the resort’s diverse dining venues and beverage programs, focusing on innovation, quality, and guest satisfaction.
About JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa is a world-class luxury destination just 20 minutes northwest of the famous Las Vegas Strip. The resort is a gateway to the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, TPC Las Vegas and numerous other premier golf courses and attractions. The resort includes 548 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, nestled among 54 acres of lush landscaping, koi ponds, waterfalls and gardens. Recently voted one of the “Top 5 Las Vegas Resorts” by Condé Nast Traveler readers, one of “The 18 Best Hotels in Las Vegas” by Vegas Magazine and recognized as a “Top-Performing Business” on TripAdvisor, it exceeds expectations. It features a full-service spa with a state-of-the-art fitness center and can host unforgettable events in one of the 35 meeting rooms with 110,000 square feet of flexible space. The on-site Rampart Casino also features eight restaurants serving American, Italian and Asian cuisines, plus an award-winning Vegas-style buffet. For information, visit www.marriott.com/LASJW. Stay up to date with the resort on Facebook, Instagram and X.
About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 125 JW Marriott hotels in 40 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
