Sean Flanigan Named Acting Managing Director Of The Elser Hotel And Vice President Of Operations At Highgate

Experienced Hospitality Leader Brings Two Decades of Operational Excellence

to the Luxury Downtown Miami Hotel

MIAMI, FL (May 21, 2025) – The Elser Hotel, a luxury 49-story tower in the heart of Downtown Miami, proudly announces the appointment of Sean Flanigan as acting managing director and Vice President of Operations at Highgate, the property’s management company and a leading global hospitality management company with properties throughout the U.S., Europe and Latin America. The seasoned hospitality executive, known for his positivity-driven leadership and commitment to continuous improvement, steps into this role with two decades of experience in hotel management, guest experience strategy and operational transformation. Flanigan will oversee all facets of The Elser Hotel’s operations, including performance management, sales, revenue strategy, marketing and guest services. 

“Miami’s hospitality industry is undergoing a period of remarkable growth and transformation, and The Elser Hotel represents the best of what this city has to offer: energy, elegance and elevated experiences,”. “I am proud to join a team that is passionate about creating memorable stays and redefining luxury hospitality.”

Sean Flanigan

Originally from Boston, Flanigan earned his degree in hospitality management from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His career has since spanned major East Coast cities, including New York and Philadelphia, where he built a reputation for elevating team culture, enhancing guest satisfaction and driving outstanding financial results.

Before joining The Elser Hotel and Highgate, Flanigan held leadership positions at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and HEI Hotels & Resorts. He most recently served as regional vice president for AKA Hotels & Residences in Florida. During his tenure, he led Hotel AKA Brickell to become the No. 1 ranked hotel in Miami on Tripadvisor, a reflection of his operational discipline and guest-first mentality.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sean Flanigan to The Elser Hotel family,”. “Sean’s leadership, strategic mindset and track record of success make him a perfect addition, and his ability to lead with both heart and precision aligns with our dedication to elevating guest experiences and achieving a close-knit team culture.”

Steve Batta, Group President East Coast

Ideal for extended stays, The Elser Hotel features 646 residential-style rooms, including studios, one-bedrooms, and spectacular two- and three-bedroom suites. Each accommodation boasts refined touches like floor-to-ceiling windows, unobstructed bay views, walkout balconies, luxurious bathrooms for every bedroom, fully equipped kitchens, and residential comforts such as washers and dryers in every unit.

For additional information about The Elser Hotel or to book your stay, visit theelserhotel.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.