Ajay Patel

Ajay Patel is the Founder and President of Pika Hotels, a group dedicated to hotel management and development. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, he has played a pivotal role in the expansion and operational excellence of the Pika Hotel Group. Under his leadership, the group has been involved in numerous hotel projects across various locations, including new constructions of Holiday Inn and Comfort Suites properties in Texas and beyond.1

Background and Education

Ajay Patel holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Virginia Tech and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. His professional background includes serving as a Managing Director at KPMG LLP, where he focused on business strategy, risk management, and operational improvements.1 Additionally, he has experience in engineering related to new plant construction and startup processes.

Industry Involvement

In addition to his role at Pika Hotels, Ajay Patel is active in the hospitality industry as a member of the Hotel & Lodging Association of Greater Houston (HLAGH) board and serves as an ambassador for the Intercontinental Hotel Group Owners Association (IAHI).12 His extensive network and insights contribute significantly to the growth and innovation within the hotel industry.

Leadership Philosophy

Ajay's leadership is characterized by a commitment to quality growth and operational excellence, leveraging his extensive experience to navigate challenges within the hospitality landscape. His strategic vision aims to enhance customer experiences while driving sustainable business practices.1