Hyatt Hotels Appoints Thomas McKeown as Regional Head of Culinary & Procurement, Classics & Luxury Brands
By Andrew Greene, Hospitality News
Hyatt Hotels has announced the appointment of Thomas McKeown as the Regional Head of Culinary & Procurement for Classics and Luxury Brands, marking a significant milestone for one of the company’s most respected culinary leaders. Based in Atlanta, Thomas brings decades of experience in hotel dining, culinary innovation, and sustainable sourcing to this newly elevated role. Thomas has long been a cornerstone of Hyatt’s culinary identity in the Southeast. As Executive Chef at Hyatt Regency Atlanta, he became known for his ability to blend refined technique with heartfelt hospitality — shaping dining experiences that honored local farmers, regional flavors, and Hyatt’s commitment to culinary excellence. His leadership helped transform the hotel’s food and beverage program into a model of modern Southern hospitality, earning national recognition for its creativity, consistency, and community partnerships. Over the years, Thomas expanded his influence beyond the kitchen, becoming a trusted voice in procurement strategy, brand standards, and culinary development across multiple Hyatt properties. His work championed responsible sourcing, chef ‑ driven menu innovation, and meaningful relationships with growers and producers — strengthening Hyatt’s reputation for authenticity and quality. As someone who has watched Thomas build teams, compete with Chef Joe Leonardi for Culinary Team USA with practice runs from 11 pm to 6 am then go to work, mentor young culinarians, and elevate every environment he touches, his promotion feels both natural and deeply deserved. Thomas is a chef who leads with purpose: grounded in craft, driven by curiosity, and committed to the people who make hospitality possible.
Reflecting on his journey, Thomas shared: “Hyatt has given me the opportunity to grow, learn, and serve in ways I never imagined. I’m grateful for the chefs, leaders, and partners who shaped my path — and for the teams who bring passion to the work every day. Great hospitality comes from great people, and my goal is to help them thrive, innovate, and create experiences that matter.”
In his new role, Thomas will guide culinary strategy, procurement alignment, brand standards, and enterprise ‑ wide initiatives across Hyatt’s Classics and Luxury portfolio. His leadership will support Hyatt’s continued evolution toward sustainable sourcing, elevated guest experiences, and chef ‑ driven creativity — ensuring the company’s most iconic brands remain at the forefront of global hospitality. On behalf of Hospitality News, congratulations, Chef Thomas. We look forward to covering your continued innovation and the next chapter of your extraordinary career.
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