Andaz West Hollywood Appoints James Dinnall as General Manager to Lead Iconic Sunset Strip Hotel into a Bold New Era of Luxury Hospitality

In a move that signals a high-voltage shift for one of Los Angeles’ most legendary hotels, Andaz West Hollywood has announced the appointment of James Dinnall as its new General Manager. Known as the “rock-n-roll” hotel of Sunset Strip lore, Andaz is now tuning up for a fresh crescendo—this time under the baton of a hospitality maestro with more than 25 years of industry excellence.

This isn’t just a management change. It’s a full-scale revival. It’s a calculated move to blend Andaz’s rebellious Hollywood spirit with a new level of elevated guest experience. With Dinnall’s arrival, the iconic hotel is set to sharpen its identity, elevate its luxury standard, and play a louder, bolder note in the West Hollywood hospitality scene.

A New Era Begins at an Icon

Andaz West Hollywood isn’t just a hotel. It’s a landmark. With its 219 guest rooms, 21 luxurious suites, and LA’s highest rooftop pool bar, it’s a centerpiece of Sunset Strip allure. Celebrities have passed through its doors. Rock stars have made it their playground. And travelers from across the world come to experience its unique fusion of history and design.

Now, with Dinnall stepping into the spotlight, this legendary property is entering a new era—one shaped by innovation, empathy, and purpose-driven leadership.

The Man Behind the Mission: A Proven Leader in Luxury Hospitality

James Dinnall is no stranger to the Hyatt portfolio or the demands of modern hospitality. His career spans senior leadership roles across multiple Hyatt properties, where he consistently delivered strong operational performance and meaningful guest engagement.

Before taking the reins at Andaz West Hollywood, Dinnall served as General Manager of the Waterfront Hotel – JDV by Hyatt in Oakland. There, he forged strategic partnerships with airlines and grew the hotel’s crew business, resulting in high occupancy and strong guest satisfaction. He also led at the Grand Hyatt San Francisco, where his operational expertise helped elevate the guest experience across rooms and service.

Dinnall also brings extensive experience from Diamond Resorts, where he led major capital improvements and strategic transitions in Las Vegas and Scottsdale. These credentials signal a leader capable not just of managing a property—but of transforming one.

Strategic Impact on the LA Travel and Tourism Scene

Andaz West Hollywood’s decision to bring in a seasoned GM with cross-market insight is timely. Los Angeles is gearing up for one of its biggest tourism booms in years. With major international events on the horizon and an influx of luxury travelers, the city’s premium hospitality scene is entering a high-stakes phase.

Hotels that don’t evolve risk fading into the background. But those like Andaz, backed by leadership that understands market shifts, digital-first service, and brand storytelling, are poised to rise.

Moreover, Andaz West Hollywood holds a unique cultural and emotional space in LA’s travel ecosystem. It represents authentic luxury with personality, not just price. Dinnall’s appointment underscores a clear strategy: preserve the soul of the hotel while modernizing every touchpoint—from check-in to rooftop cocktails.

Elevated Experiences, Amplified Amenities

Guests at Andaz West Hollywood already expect a lot—and for good reason.

The hotel boasts expansive suites with panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and Downtown LA. Its rooftop pool bar, newly renovated with a $500,000 investment, is the highest in the city. Its dining and private event spaces draw both global visitors and local creatives.

But Dinnall is expected to push boundaries even further. Under his leadership, we can anticipate enhanced culinary programs, curated cultural partnerships, and experiential packages that connect guests more deeply with West Hollywood’s dynamic energy.

This isn’t just about staying in LA. It’s about feeling LA. From live music showcases to bespoke suite experiences, Andaz is ready to amplify what makes it unforgettable—and Dinnall is poised to lead that charge.

People First, Always

At the heart of this transition lies a clear people-first philosophy. Dinnall’s leadership style is built on empathy, integrity, and investing in teams. For the Andaz brand—which values community, authenticity, and personalized service—this approach is the perfect match.

The hotel’s staff, many of whom have been with the property through its many evolutions, now enter a growth era with a leader committed to their development and wellbeing. Guests, too, will feel that difference—in service quality, emotional warmth, and authentic storytelling from check-in to departure.

Why This Matters for Travelers, Influencers, and the Industry

The hospitality world is watching West Hollywood—and especially the Sunset Strip—closely. As travel returns in full force, brands are rethinking what luxury means. It’s not just about marble bathrooms and fine linens anymore. It’s about experience, emotion, and connection.

With Gen Z and millennial travelers driving demand for meaningful, social-media-worthy stays, Andaz’s edgy legacy paired with modern luxury under Dinnall’s leadership is a recipe for viral success.

Expect influencers to flock back. Expect musicians and creatives to host pop-ups. Expect a new class of traveler to rediscover what made this hotel a legend in the first place.

Looking Ahead: A Cultural and Commercial Powerhouse

Andaz West Hollywood isn’t resting on its rock-n-roll laurels. It’s getting ready to rock the next generation of travel trends. Under James Dinnall, the hotel is expected to strengthen ties with West Hollywood’s business, cultural, and entertainment communities—becoming a true hub, not just a stay.

From curated brand partnerships to wellness-forward experiences and sustainability-focused upgrades, this next chapter is all about relevance, responsibility, and reinvention.

This is more than a leadership change. It’s a signal that West Hollywood is back—and louder than ever.

Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/andaz-west-hollywood-appoints-james-dinnall-as-general-manager-to-lead-iconic-sunset-strip-hotel-into-a-bold-new-era-of-luxury-hospitality/