In this “Not Done” episode, Sloan Dean reconnects with former colleague Jason Reader, now COO of Davidson Hospitality, to discuss Jason’s move from Remington, Davidson’s post recapitalisation operating focus, and the realities of leading large hotel portfolios through a tough budgeting cycle. Jason describes joining Davidson as a culture and opportunity decision rather than an active job search, and he frames 2026 as challenging but potentially better than current sentiment, citing encouraging group pace. They explore how third party hotel management has become increasingly commoditised, why racing to the lowest fee undermines talent and performance, and how Davidson differentiates through discipline, vertical specialisation, and above property support, particularly in food and beverage. The conversation also covers leadership philosophy (psychological safety over fear and micromanagement), practical margin expansion through total revenue and ROI projects, and a measured view of AI as…
