07.13.26

Marcus Hotels & Resorts Announces Key Leadership Appointments at AC Hotel Chicago Downtown

“These leadership appointments at AC Hotel Chicago Downtown reflect our continued commitment to building a strong team that supports the hotel’s success and future growth,” said Michael Evans, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “Jesse’s more than 10 years with Marcus Hotels & Resorts and proven leadership, combined with Tad’s and Nick’s strong industry experience, position the hotel well for the future.”

Kearns, a longstanding employee of Marcus Hotels & Resorts, began his career with Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 2015 as the front office director at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and was promoted to director of operations at Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark in Lake Geneva in 2017. In this role, he oversaw the extensive waterpark renovation, the creation of new food and beverage concepts as well as expanded guest entertainment offerings. His work contributed to the property being named a top five U.S. indoor waterpark by USA Today for two consecutive years. Kearns holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality administration and management from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.

Naglestad joins AC Hotel Chicago Downtown after serving as director of sales at Home2 Suites Chicago River North. In this role, he successfully drove the hotel’s revenue, achieving over $1 million in group sales production in 2025 for the first time in the hotel’s history. Previously, Naglestad worked with leading hospitality brands, including Marriott International and Hilton Hotels. Naglestad holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the University of Wisconsin – Stout.

Madia brings more than 15 years of hospitality industry experience and a strong background in hotel operations across notable brands, including Marriott, Hyatt, Loews, IHG, and independent luxury properties. His expertise spans all areas of hotel operations, including the front desk, security, housekeeping, food & beverage, and guest services, providing a well-rounded understanding of how to deliver exceptional guest experiences while driving strong performance. Prior to joining AC Hotel Chicago Downtown, Madia served as director of rooms and outlets at The Drake Oak Brook, Autograph Collection in Oak Brook, Illinois. He is a graduate of the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and corrections.

About AC Hotel Chicago Downtown

AC Hotel Chicago Downtown, located in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood, offers a sleek and modern European-inspired experience for today’s savvy traveler. The hotel features 226 stylishly designed guest rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and flexible meeting spaces perfect for business and social events. Guests can unwind at the AC Lounge with signature cocktails and tapas-style small plates, or explore nearby attractions such as the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park. For more information, please visit: achotelchicago.com.

About Marcus Hotels & Resorts

Marcus Hotels & Resorts own and/or manage 17 hotels, resorts and other properties in the U.S. The company’s distinctive portfolio includes city-center meeting hotels, upscale resorts, historic properties, and premium branded and independent first-class hotels. Marcus Hotels & Resorts is an approved operator for all major lodging brands. A leader in the hospitality industry since 1962, Marcus Hotels & Resorts creates asset value for hotel owners through its expertise in management, development and product repositioning. This includes unique food and beverage concepts, developed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, such as Mason Street Grill®, The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails, Milwaukee ChopHouse®, Miller Time® Pub & Grill, and SafeHouse® Restaurant. For more information, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com and follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Marcus Corporation 

Headquartered in Milwaukee, Marcus Corporation is a leader in the entertainment and hospitality industries, with significant company-owned real estate assets. In addition to its hospitality division, its theatre division, Marcus Theatres^®, is the fourth largest theatre circuit in the U.S. and currently owns or operates 975 screens at 77 locations in 17 states under the Marcus Theatres, Movie Tavern^® by Marcus and BistroPlex^® brands. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.marcuscorp.com.