Jennings brings 30+ years in the hospitality industry, including 12 years in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) hotel market, to his new role as GM of the 291-key, high-rise Crowne Plaza hotel in downtown Dallas.
Universal Hospitality Solutions (UHS) today announced that Joseph “Joe” Jennings has joined the company as general manager of Crowne Plaza® Dallas Downtown by IHG, which features 30,000 square feet of event space. With more than three decades of hospitality experience, Jennings will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day hotel operations, customer experience, and financial performance of the UHS-managed, 291-key, high-rise Crowne Plaza hotel in downtown Dallas. UHS is a hotel development and management company that operates several hotels, representing well-known hotel brands in the United States and international locations. The Scottsdale, Arizona-based company provides complete lifecycle services for hotel owners and investors to maximize their hospitality industry-related returns.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250818609175/en/

Joseph “Joe” Jennings has been appointed general manager of Crowne Plaza® Dallas Downtown, which is managed by Universal Hospitality Solutions (UHS) and features 30,000 square feet of event space and a rooftop pool. With more than three decades of hospitality experience, Jennings will be responsible for overseeing all day-to-day hotel operations, customer experience, and financial performance of the 291-key, high-rise Crowne Plaza hotel in downtown Dallas.
“Joe has a servant’s heart, is a proven hospitality leader and team builder, and has significant management experience in the DFW hotel market,” said Scott Nadel, CEO of Universal Hospitality Solutions. “Leveraging his transformational leadership style, Joe will strengthen Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown’s success with the modern traveler.”
Most recently, Jennings served as vice president of DFW-based Q Companies, which owns and operates multiple hotels and automatic car washes. His 30+ years of hospitality experience includes onsite and area-level leadership roles overseeing full-service properties spanning well-known hotel brands operated by leading hotel companies. Jennings has been recognized with several accolades for his management expertise, including General Manager of the Year, Hotel of the Year, and Leadership Award of the Year. He received GM certifications from multiple hotel brands. Jennings graduated from The University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
Jennings is active in the DFW hospitality community. He currently serves as vice chairman of the board for the Hotel Association of Tarrant County and previously served as past chairman of the board emeritus for the organization. He is co-founder and chairman of the board emeritus for the Arlington Tourism and Public Improvement District and is a past board member of the Arlington City Council. Jennings shares his leadership expertise by participating as a speaker at hotel industry conferences.
“I’m passionate about the hotel industry, particularly the robust DFW market,” said Joe Jennings, general manager, Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown. “I’m excited to collaborate with the local CVB and lead the dedicated team at Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown in consistently delivering outstanding guest experiences.”
About Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown
Located at 1015 Elm Street, Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown is a short walk to Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas and over 50 restaurants. The property is near several major employers, local attractions, West End district, American Airlines Center, and Uptown. The hotel is convenient to downtown Dallas public transportation and is approximately seven miles from Dallas Love Field (DAL) and 19 miles from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
Business and leisure guests of Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown will enjoy an inviting environment of beauty in balance that inspires connection and collaboration. A sampling of hotel amenities includes:
- Well-appointed guest rooms/suites with amazing views of downtown Dallas, new luxury bedding, contemporary décor, 55” television, mini refrigerator, desk and ergonomic chair, eco-friendly Apotheke toiletries, and free Wi-Fi access.
- Onsite dining options including Thrive Restaurant for breakfast and dinner featuring a refreshed menu with a global twist, including vegetarian options and kids’ menu; Thrive Round Bar; room service; and The MarketPlace, a convenient, 24/7 spot for purchasing snacks and sundries.
- Fully equipped fitness center, open 24/7.
- Conference center with 30,000 square feet of flexible event space; dedicated Crowne Meetings Director; versatile spaces, including combined 11,273 square feet to accommodate a reception of 1,677 guests; onsite catering; and comprehensive multimedia and audio-visual support.
- Business center, open 24/7.
- Ninth-floor rooftop pool with panoramic views of downtown Dallas skyline.
- Onsite self-service laundry.
- Onsite parking garage and valet service.
Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown participates in IHG One Rewards loyalty program, providing hotel rewards and exclusive member offers. For more information about Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown or to make a reservation, visit the hotel’s website or call (214) 742-5678. For sales and events, please contact UHS.
About Universal Hospitality Solutions
Scottsdale, Arizona-based Universal Hospitality Solutions provides complete lifecycle services for hotel owners and investors to maximize their hospitality industry-related returns. With over 40 years combined experience developing and managing hotels, UHS’ partners have the deep insight into market conditions, construction, forecasting, sales and marketing, operations, staffing, management, hotel brands, and other areas necessary to maximize the revenue and profitability for any hotel project at any phase in its lifecycle. For hotel owners or operators looking to take their business to the next level through strategic partnerships, please contact UHS.
About Crowne Plaza
As one of the world’s largest premium hotel brands with locations in city, airport, resort and suburban destinations, Crowne Plaza is perfectly placed to meet the needs of today’s guest, whether they are traveling for business, leisure, or a blend of both. For more information, visit www.crowneplaza.com, and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250818609175/en/
“Leveraging his transformational leadership style, Joe Jennings will strengthen Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown’s success with the modern traveler.”
Contacts
Sheri D. Smith
WiseHive Public Relations LLC for Universal Hospitality Solutions
(214) 454-3969; sheri.smith@wisehivepr.com