Best Western Hotels and Resorts Announces Viral (Victor) Patel as Board Chairperson for 2026

BWH Hotels announced today that its Board of Directors has elected Viral (Victor) Patel as Board Chairperson for 2026. With over 25 years of industry experience, Patel will bring invaluable insights to the role.

Appointment Details
- Role: Board Chairperson for 2026
- Announcement Date: December 15, 2025
- Other Board Appointments:
- Rajesh Patel as Vice-Chairperson
- Santosh Khanjee as Secretary-Treasurer
- Rebecca Driggs welcomed as a new Board Member

About Viral (Victor) Patel
- Became a hotel owner at just 26 years old, acquiring the Best Western Corbin Inn in Kentucky (still owned today).
- His property has earned the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award 10 times.
- Holds a Psychology and Pre-Law degree from Penn State University.
- Resides in London, Kentucky, with his wife Sejal and their two daughters.

Industry Contributions
- Former Board Chairman of the Corbin Tourism & Convention Commission.
- First hotelier to chair the Kentucky Travel Industry Association.
- Served as an ambassador for the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA).

About BWH® Hotels
- A leading global hospitality enterprise comprising WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels.
- Operates approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide.
- Portfolio spans 18 brands, from economy to luxury

✨ Patel’s appointment signals a transformational year ahead for BWH Hotels, focusing on digital innovation, refreshed loyalty programs, and empowering hoteliers to deliver unforgettable guest experiences.