News

HMSHost adds two execs to support development efforts

October 24, 2014

HMSHost has appointed Stephanie Havard as EVP of Restaurant Development, overseeing strategic investment, concept development and design and construction; and Derryl Benton has been named as EVP of Business Development, overseeing and extending industry contracts.

Both roles will report to CEO Steve Johnson.

"I am so pleased to announce these two new appointments to HMSHost’s Executive Team," Johnson said in a news release. "Stephanie has been such an integral part of the team for more than 20 years, and her financial acumen and industry knowledge will be invaluable in this new role. Derryl is also an industry veteran, with 25 years of insight and experience, and his relationship building skills, and reputation for developing creative solutions for clients will be considerable assets as we move forward."

Havard has held various financial roles during her tenure at HMSHost, most recently as VP of Business Development Finance. She has a degree in Economics from the University of Virginia and an MBA in Finance and Investments from George Washington University.

Benton joined HMSHost after holding leading business development roles in the industry, most recently with Hudson Group, where he was responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities in North America; and prior to that with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. He received his education from Lake Sumter State College and the University of Central Florida.