

JEFF KRAMER
HEAD OF SARATOGA HOSPITALITY
Growing up in the far south suburbs of Chicago, Jeff's passion for hotels and hospitality was sparked by annual family vacations. Though often sleeping on the floor as the middle child, it was these trips that ignited his curiosity about different cultures and inspired his desire to create memorable experiences for others.
With over 20 years in the hospitality industry, he combines hands-on operational expertise with a strong sense of design and strategy. Jeff has a proven knack for transforming properties into top-performing assets, driven by his analytical mind and attention to detail. From hotel management to development and asset management roles, his focus has always been on delivering long-term value for both guests and investors.
Believing that happy, engaged staff are the foundation of great guest experiences, his leadership style emphasizes empowering teams to perform at their best. He’s built strong, motivated teams who are as dedicated to delivering exceptional service as he is. For him, the connection between staff satisfaction and guest satisfaction is clear, and he fosters a work environment that brings out the best in everyone.
His philosophy on guest experience is deeply rooted in the Japanese concept of 'Omotenashi,' where thoughtful, anticipatory service is key. It’s about making guests feel welcome and cared for before they even know what they need.
His leadership style is all about decisiveness and getting things done. Jeff thrives on pushing initiatives forward quickly and doesn’t shy away from pivoting when necessary. This adaptability has been key to his success in leading large-scale projects, ensuring they meet their goals, even when challenges arise. His technical abilities—whether it's construction, plumbing, carpentry, or even graphic and web design—allow him to roll up his sleeves and solve problems hands-on, keeping projects on track. His unique ability to reimagine spaces for optimal use has also been instrumental in transforming inefficient layouts into functional, high-performing environments.
During the preopening of The Barfield, Autograph Collection in Amarillo, Texas, which earned Marriott’s 'Hotel Opening of the Year' award, he demonstrated his value and expertise in refining creative direction, addressing design challenges, and optimizing layouts.
His skills also include the food and beverage side of hospitality. He’s been hands-on in designing kitchens, sourcing equipment, and curating menus that fit seamlessly with each property’s brand.
He understands that successful hotels must not only run efficiently but also generate revenue and exceed guest expectations. Jeff has consistently driven revenue growth by optimizing operational structures, implementing effective front-line sales strategies, and fostering a shared vision for success across teams.
At Saratoga Hospitality, he oversees a wide range of hotels, with a focus on upscale developments and adaptive reuse projects. One of his standout projects is a $50 million hotel development in Chicago’s Gold Coast, where he leads the project from concept through to navigating regulatory hurdles, handling the complex, large-scale project while keeping an eye on both budgets and operations.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality & Tourism from Grand Valley State University and a certification in Commercial Real Estate Analysis & Investment from MIT. When he’s not overseeing our clients' hotels, he enjoys time on the golf course, exploring Chicago’s vibrant dining scene, or spending time outdoors with his wife and 3 kids.
His unique balance of technical expertise, strategic leadership, and dedication to operational excellence continues to elevate Saratoga Hospitality’s rapidly expanding portfolio, delivering sustainable growth, enhanced guest experiences, and lasting value for stakeholders.
Property Experience
Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, Chicago, IL
Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL
Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas, San Juan, PR
The Saint Paul Hotel, St. Paul, MN
Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, Chicago, IL
The Barfield, Autograph Collection, Amarillo, TX
Chicago Hotel by PlanꞏDoꞏSee, Chicago, IL