Our Team

At Baron Hospitality, our success is built on the dedication, experience, and passion of our people. From regional leaders to property-level experts, each member of our team plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service and driving our continued growth. With a deep commitment to excellence and a shared vision for hospitality, we’re proud to introduce the professionals who help shape every guest experience across our portfolio.

Sanjay Patel

Sanjay Patel

Principal / Owner

Sanjay owns and operates a growing portfolio of properties, supported by a dedicated team of hospitality professionals. He is actively involved in industry leadership and community outreach, serving on the board of the Alabama Restaurant and Hotel Association and the Regional Advisory Board of Choice Hotels. He also proudly represents the industry as the Alabama Regional Director for AAHOA, advocating for hotel owners across the region.

Justin Patel

Justin Patel

General Manager / Director of Operations – Best Western Gardendale

With over a decade of experience in hospitality, Justin Patel specializes in hotel operations, guest satisfaction, and revenue strategy. He oversees daily operations, ensures brand compliance, leads PIP projects, and manages vendor relationships. Justin is known for his hands-on leadership style and focus on team development and cost control.

Cherie Hinz

Cherie Hinz

Director of Sales – Hyatt Place Birmingham

Cherie has led successful sales teams at Hilton, Indigo, and DoubleTree, including roles as VP of Sales and Regional Director. Her diverse background in both operations and ownership gives her a strategic edge in driving sales while elevating guest experiences. She brings deep industry insight and a proven ability to grow revenue.

Rinkesh Kachhadiya

Rinkesh Kachhadiya

Accounts Payable Specialist

Rinkesh is responsible for invoice processing, vendor payments, and expense tracking across Baron Hospitality’s portfolio. His attention to detail and timely financial support play a vital role in maintaining accuracy and building strong supplier relationships.

Radha Patel

Radha Patel

Accounting Associate

Radha handles daily financial reconciliation and merchant transaction accuracy across multiple properties. She specializes in identifying and resolving discrepancies, ensuring smooth financial operations and compliance with accounting standards.

Hema Patel

Hema Patel

Accounting Lead

With over 15 years of hospitality experience, Hema oversees payroll, accounting, and training for new General Managers. She is instrumental in onboarding and supporting staff while maintaining the integrity of financial processes. Hema is known for her warm demeanor and commitment to teamwork.

Karan Dahya

Karan Dahya

Regional Manager / General Manager – Hampton Inn Florence

Karan joined Baron Hospitality in 2022 and currently manages the Hampton Inn in Florence—one of the group’s flagship properties. He also serves as the Hilton brand liaison and supports operations in Florence, Scottsboro, and Corinth. Karan ensures brand compliance and operational success across multiple sites.

Jalpesh (Jay) Patel

Jalpesh (Jay) Patel

Office & Project Manager

Jay Patel joined in 2022 and has since taken on a wide range of responsibilities, from managing renovation and construction projects to supporting accounting functions. He also oversees office operations and helps coordinate interdepartmental communication and logistics.

Blake Sanders

Blake Sanders

Coordinator

K. Blake Sanders is a Birmingham native with a background in HVAC and plumbing contracting, bringing hands-on experience in construction and project management. At Baron Hospitality, he plays a key role in contract negotiation, permitting, construction oversight, and public relations, as well as leading renovations to maintain high standards across existing properties. Blake also serves as Treasurer for Alabama Veteran, where he’s helped grow funding to over $3 million, and is the Business Development Director at Microf, managing a national team across 43 states.

George Sanders

George Sanders

Regional Director of Operations

George oversees the operational performance of multiple hotels in the Birmingham, Alabama market. He works closely with General Managers to ensure brand standards, guest satisfaction, and budget goals are met. Known for his leadership and attention to detail, George focuses on mentoring teams and maintaining a strong service culture.

Dianah Putman

Dianah Putman

Hospitality Consultant

Dianah brings more than 50 years of experience in the hospitality industry, with leadership roles spanning hotel management, sales, marketing, and human resources. A former executive at Colonial Properties for over 20 years, she now leads Putman Consultant Services. Dianah has earned numerous industry awards and continues to serve on several hospitality boards.

Nirav (Nick) Patel

Nirav (Nick) Patel

Regional Director

Nick leads operations across three states, bringing more than 10 years of experience in hospitality. He supports PIPs, HR, sales, and property conversions while collaborating with accounting and vendor teams to drive portfolio-wide performance and efficiency.