Hilton is expanding its Canadian development team with the appointment of Mark Kochhar, director, franchise development, Canada. Kochhar will oversee development efforts across Western Canada, working closely with owners and partners to advance new hotel projects and support the continued expansion of Hilton’s portfolio in the region.
“Over the past decade, Hilton has nearly doubled its footprint in Canada, introducing first‑in‑market brands - culminating in the opening of our 200th hotel in the country,” Matt Wehling, SVP, development, U.S. and Canada, Hilton, said in a statement. “Strengthening our development team with additional in‑market expertise allows us to continue that growth while supporting our owners at every stage of development. Mark brings deep market knowledge, trusted owner relationships, and a proven track record within Hilton, making him a strong addition to our Canadian development team.”
Originally from Vancouver and now based in Toronto, Kochhar holds more than 13 years of experience with Hilton and three decades in the hospitality industry. During his tenure with the company, he has developed deep expertise across hotel development, owner relations, and brand management and performance, with a strong focus on long‑term partnerships and strategic growth. Prior to his current role, Kochhar served as director, owner relations, Canada for Hilton, working closely with owners and operators nationwide to support performance, alignment, and brand standards. Before joining Hilton’s corporate team, Kochhar served as general manager of the former Hilton Garden Inn Toronto City Centre.
Kochhar is a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Victoria, along with an associate degree in Hotel, Motel and Restaurant Management from Douglas College. He is actively engaged in the Canadian hospitality industry and serves on the Hotel Association of Canada Board of Directors (Brand Category), contributing to industry advocacy at the national level.
Kochhar’s appointment complements Hilton’s existing Canadian development team of regional, in‑market specialists, including Jeff Cury, senior director, development, Canada, and Christopher La Vine, senior analyst, development, Canada. Cury, a long‑standing leader within Hilton’s Canadian development organization, has been central to advancing the company’s growth strategy across the country, helping to steward a strong and diverse portfolio and pipeline while deepening partnerships with owners and developers. La Vine, who recently joined the company, supports development activity nationwide with market analysis and pipeline management.
Hilton now has more than 200 hotels in Canada and more than 100 properties in various stages of development.