The upscale leader in fitness clubs has selected a former Four Seasons executive to lead and grow their luxury hotel business.
Christopher Norton, the former President, Global Product and Chief Operating Operator of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, has been named the Chief Executive Officer of Equinox’s hotel business. The renown Norton will oversee all facets of Equinox’s luxury hospitality business and execute future growth strategy.
Norton brings over 28 years of industry experience with Four Seasons, overseeing global hotel operations and defining the brand’s future product vision, through design and construction. His résumé includes a regional vice president jobs in Asia and general manager of the iconic Four Seasons’ Hotel George V in Paris.
“The Equinox philosophy of achieving a balanced life resonated with me both personally and professionally,” said Christopher Norton. “Designing premiere guest experiences with holistic health in mind is already an inherent part of my DNA and I see tremendous opportunity for the Equinox brand to redesign the luxury consumer experience in hospitality.”
In 2018, Equinox will open its first property in New York City’s Hudson Yards. The hotel will include a 60,000-square-foot Equinox gym, the brand’s largest facility ever. Equinox also has plans for a Los Angeles location in 2019. Its eventual goal: 79 hotels worldwide.
“We are thrilled to have Christopher on board, he is one of the most qualified global hotel executives and will work closely with Josh Wyatt, who recently joined as President, in guiding our vision and unique opportunity in the hospitality sector,” said Harvey Spevak, CEO of Equinox and Executive Chairman of its hospitality business. “Christopher has a great appreciation for what makes a unique guest experience, a strong design sensibility and an understanding of the types of experiences customers will expect of luxury hotel brands in the future.”
Christian Clerc, currently President, Hotel Operations Americas for Four Seasons, will succeed Norton. Clerc’s new title will be President, Worldwide Hotel Operations for the Toronto, Canada-based luxury hotel brand.
