Gaines Sturdivant

Gaines Sturdivant was named President of MMI Hotel Group in 1988 after years of service, beginning as a trainee and moving up to become General Manager. Upon graduating from Vanderbilt University, Mr. Sturdivant committed several years to MMI focusing on operations, technical services, and marketing responsibilities before taking a leave of absence to attend the Harvard Business School, completing its Program for Management Development. Mr. Sturdivant is a Past President of the International Association of Holiday Inns and currently serves as a member of the IAHI’s Technology Committee. He has served on numerous committees of the American Hotel & Lodging Association including its Political Action Committee and International Council of Hotel Management Companies Committee. Today, Mr. Sturdivant serves in an advisory position to Hyatt Hotels on the new select service segment. Mr. Sturdivant serves as a member of the Millsaps College Else School of Business advisory board. Additionally, he is a board member of the Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau. Mr. Sturdivant was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow in 2006.