BJ Patel, Chief Operating Officer (West Region) of Southern Hospitality Services, LLC, moved to the United States in December 1999 at the age of 23, after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in India. He began his career at an independent motel in Jackson, MS, quickly advancing to managing a franchised property in Pearl, MS. By November 2001, he was managing the Hampton Inn at San Francisco Airport and later became instrumental in overseeing all of the California properties. Upon the founding of SHS Development, Inc., BJ initially served as Chief Development Officer before transitioning to his current role as Chief Operating Officer. He is responsible for sourcing and procuring FF&E and building materials for all construction projects, while also overseeing operations and development across the West Region. BJ is married to Shetal Patel, the daughter of Roy Patel, and they have two sons. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf and traveling.