Ritz-Carlton's Cook named national resort General Manager of the Year

AMELIA ISLAND — Greg Cook, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, has been named the nation's top resort general manager for 2026 by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

Cook received the award Tuesday during The Hospitality Show in Miami Beach, where the national hotel industry association recognized eight general managers for their leadership, guest service and employee development.

Cook was honored in the resort property category for his commitment to responsible leadership, high standards of service and developing future hospitality leaders.

The winners were selected by a panel of fellow general managers and hospitality industry leaders from more than 250 nominations nationwide.

“Hospitality is an industry where talent and hard work can take you anywhere,” said Rosanna Maietta, AHLA president and CEO. “This year's honorees are proof. They grew into leaders who develop their teams, drive results, and make their communities stronger.”

The recognition places Cook among a select group of hotel executives honored by the association, which represents more than 30,000 members across the U.S. hospitality industry.

As general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Cook oversees one of the island's best-known luxury resorts, a major presence in the local tourism and hospitality industry.

The General Manager of the Year awards recognize hotel executives for their contributions to guest satisfaction, employee engagement and leadership within their properties and communities.

AHLA represents hotels across the country, including major hotel brands and independent properties. The association said this year's awards recognize general managers who invest in their employees while maintaining high standards of hospitality.

Cook was the sole recipient of the association's 2026 General Manager of the Year award in the resort category.