George R. Johnson - President/CEO

George R. Johnson formed Johnson Development Company, LLC (JDC) in May of 1999 to operate the purchased 123-room Hampton Inn - Springfield IL, and the 154-room Hampton Inn - East Peoria, IL. Since then George has continued to purchase and or operate hotel properties which include the 198-room Holiday Inn - Urbana, IL, the 82-room Staybridge Suites - Springfield, IL, the 83-room Hampton Inn & Suites – Springfield, IL, and the 74-room Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – Urbana, IL.

As President and CEO, George is responsible for the oversight of all operations of JDC, its owned hotels, as well as all managed properties. JDC currently operates both full- and limited-service properties under the flags of Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn and Suites, Staybridge Suites and Holiday Inn. The company has also operated a Ramada Limited brand property.

After an honorable discharge from the United States Army as a helicopter pilot with tours in Germany and Vietnam, George obtained biochemistry degree with a minor in business administration from Washington State University in Pullman, WA. He was quickly recruited from the small bus station/motel where he was employed during school into the management internship program of the Sheraton Hotel Corporation. It was there that George found his passion for the hospitality industry.

George’s broad experience in hotel development and management includes the development, operation and management of independent franchises for numerous national hotel franchises including Sheraton Hotels, Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, Best Western, and Ramada. George has also taught hotel/motel administration for Milwaukee Community College in Milwaukee, WI and Central Illinois Community College in East Peoria, IL. Additionally, he has lectured and appeared as a guest speaker for Holiday Inn and Hampton Inn as well as numerous college and civic groups.

Darrin Thurman
General Manager
Hampton Inn & Suites, Springfield Southwest

Darrin Thurman joined Johnson Development Company in 2004 as a Guest Service Agent, and has worked his way through the ranks, as a Front Office Manager, Assistant General Manager, and is now the General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites, Springfield Southwest. In 2007 Darrin was awarded the distinguished Spirit of Hampton award for true hospitality leadership and extraordinary service and commitment.

Darrin graduated from Millikin University in 2003 with a Bachelors degree in Commercial Music studies with a vocal performance emphasis. Darrin enjoys an active concert schedule and currently serves as director of music at Fountain of Life UMC in Buffalo, IL.

David C. Kimsey, CPA, CHA – CFO/Management Oversight

Dave Kimsey joined JDC in 2002. Dave’s responsibilities with JDC include the oversight of all accounting and financial reporting for JDC hotels. In addition to the financial responsibilities, Dave is actively engaged in management and leadership development of key employees within the JDC hotels. Dave also contributes to the development of new management, acquisition and development opportunities for the company.

Prior to joining JDC, Dave was a Compliance Audit Supervisor with the Office of the Auditor General for the State of Illinois where he was responsible for the planning, performance and supervision of financial and compliance audits of various agencies, departments, boards and commissions of the State of Illinois.

A registered and licensed CPA in the State of Illinois, Dave is a graduate of Millikin University in Decatur, IL with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.

Dave is also a licensed real estate sales person in the State of Illinois.

Marilyn Medica – Chief Legal Counsel/Regional Director of Sales

Marilyn Medica has been with JDC since its beginning in 1999. She has been licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois since 1992. After graduating from DePaul University in Chicago, she worked as a prosecuting attorney for the Sangamon County State's Attorney's Office in Springfield, Illinois. Thereafter, she joined the law firm of Brown Hay & Stephens concentrating in civil litigation.

Marilyn's introduction into the hotel industry began when she worked as a Sales Manager for Holiday Inn after graduating from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. Currently, she continues the role of Regional Director of Sales for all JDC managed properties. Marilyn is also a licensed real estate broker in the State of Illinois.

Stephanie Thiry – Director of Quality and Compliance Support

Stephanie Thiry joined Johnson Development Company in January of 2009 as the Director of Quality and Compliance Support. Stephanie is responsible for all facets of education, business improvement and compliance at each JDC property. Stephanie works directly with the President, key management, and line level employees to ensure compliance with financial and operational controls and to improve overall performance by employee development, motivation, retention, and by building positive team relationships.

Prior to joining JDC, Stephanie was employed by the Walt Disney Company as a finance associate at Disney’s All Star Resort where she was primarily responsible for forecasting and budgeting both revenues and expenses, managing labor, and assisting in month-end and year-end financial reporting for three-themed Walt Disney World Hotels. In addition to her time at All Star Resort, Stephanie also served in a similar role supporting Food & Beverage Operations at each Disney property including Disneyland Resort in California, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Resort Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and the Disney Cruise Line.

Stephanie graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2006 from Butler University in Indianapolis, IN with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.

Rachelle Matthiesen, PHR, CHRE - Human Resource Coordinator

Rachelle Matthiesen joined JDC in January of 2008 as the Human Resource Coordinator. Rachelle's responsibilities include Payroll and Benefits, as well as Training and Development for all Johnson Development hotel properties.
Rachelle has a Bachelors degree in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources and International Business from Illinois State University. Her previous experience in Human Resource includes working for Six Flags Great America and British Petroleum. Rachelle has been awarded the Certified Human Resources Executive (CHRE) designation by the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association as well as the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute.
"The best investment a company can make is in their own employees. Accomplishing great goals requires people with leadership skills that stretch the organization beyond its current capabilities. Employee training not only fosters the individual’s development but it’s an investment towards the organization’s goals."

Lindsey Gingerich Director of Sales Hampton Inn, Springfield, Illinois

Lindsey Gingerich began her position as Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn, Springfield, Illinois in January of 2010. Lindseys job responsibilities include directing the overall sales activities of the hotel to achieve budgeted goals and continuously increasing total revenues by means of prospecting, soliciting and confirming business through a variety of market segments; as well as actively participating in community-wide organizations and events.

Prior to achieving her position as the Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn, Lindsey was a Catering Sales Manager for the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center in Urbana Illinois for 2 years, where she was responsible for the selling and catering of corporate, association, government and college sports business.

Lindsey is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston Illinois with a bachelors degree in Business Administration. Lindsey has received certification as a Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) and is also a certified Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn brand.

Mark Vanhala
Director of Sales
Hampton Inn and Suites, Springfield, IL

Mark Vanhala joined Johnson Development Company in 2009 as the Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn and Suites, Springfield Illinois. Mark's overall responsibilities include driving total revenue by increasing RevPAR and gaining market share through the development and implementation of an innovative marketing plan, designed to maximize customer satisfaction, execute sales strategies, and reach out to the market segment with the overall goal of increasing profitability of the hotel.

Prior to joining JDC, Mark spent nine years as the Sales Director and General Manager of several large, nationwide health club chains, where he promoted the clubs through both outside and inside selling, in-store promotions, business-to-business sales programs, and corporate presentations. His primary duties were focused on increasing revenue by growing the membership dues base, training and managing staff, and building customer satisfaction.

Mark is a graduate of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education. He has also completed numerous courses toward a master's degree in Sports Business Management. Mark brings nine years of sales and management experience to JDC.

Joshua Young - Accountant

Joshua Young joined Johnson Development Company in April of 2007 as an accountant. Joshua works with the Chief Financial Officer to assist in accounting and financial reporting for all six hotel properties. His primary responsibilities lie in the processing of accounts payable and maintaining vendor relationships, assisting the CFO in month-end and year-end financial reporting, processing inventory requests and maintaining supplier relationships, and providing the hotel properties with sound financial decision-making advice.

Joshua has completed his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Administration from the University of Illinois in Springfield, IL

Cindy Harris - CHA General Manager Hampton Inn East Peoria, IL

Cindy Harris joined Johnson Development Company in May 2008 as the Interim Operations Manager for the Holiday Inn and Conference Center Urbana, Il. In August 2008 Cindy returned to East Peoria as the General Manager for the Hampton Inn. She opened the Hampton Inn East Peoria in June 1992 where she worked as Director of Sales and General Manager until September 2001. Cindy is responsible for the overall Management of the Hampton Inn. She is very Customer focused and has over 29 years of experience in the Hospitality Industry.

Prior to returning to JDC, Cindy was the General Manager of the Hampton Inn Carmel, IN where she received several awards for outstanding customer service and 100% room cleanliness. Some of the awards she received include 4 Consecutive Lighthouse Awards (top 5% of all Hampton Inn Hotels) and 5 Circle of Excellence Awards. Her mission is to offer the best in Hospitality with an Award winning Team! In June of 2009 Cindy became a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) from the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Bruce D. Hertz, CHA
General Manager
Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center
Champaign-Urbana, IL

Bruce Hertz joined JDC in October of 2007 as the General Manager of the Holiday Inn and Conference Center. Bruce is responsible for the overall management of the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center in Champaign-Urbana and plays a supporting role for the Holiday Inn Express and Suites. His duties include promoting, managing and coordinating the daily operations of the hotel in a manner that achieves the company's mission and goals while ensuring quality customer.

Prior to joining JDC, Bruce was the General Manager at the Holiday Inn in Carlinville Illinois which was the recipient of both Quality Excellence and Torchbearer Awards during his tenure. Bruce earned the designation of Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. He attended Clemson University in Clemson, SC.

Catie Franks, CHSP
Director of Sales
Staybridge Suites, Springfield, IL

Catie Franks joined JDC in February of 2006 as the Director of Sales for the Staybridge Suites. Catie’s responsibilities include driving total revenues by increasing RevPAR and gaining market share through the proper direction of the sales and reservations department, achieving the annual sales goals of the hotel by developing, implementing and directing the strategies and actions in accordance with the marketing plan and coordinating service activities related to the sales function to maximize customer satisfaction and profitability of the hotel.

Prior to joining the JDC family, Catie was the Catering Sales Manager at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center, formally the Renaissance Springfield Hotel, where she booked all social, corporate, association, and government events. Catie also prospected all markets for future business and produced and critiqued customer contacts.

Catie is a graduate of Illinois State University in Normal, IL with two bachelor's degrees in Recreation and Park Administration focusing on Program Management & Commercial Tourism fields. Catie is a certified Director of Sales through the Intercontinental Hotels Group for the Staybridge Suites brand and has also earned her certification as a Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP). Catie serves on the Staybridge Suites Advisory Council and also volunteers as an Ambassador for The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce.

Jody Owen, CHSP
Director of Sales
Hampton Inn, East Peoria, IL

Jody Owen joined JDC in 2005 as the Director of Sales for the Hampton Inn East Peoria. Jody's overall responsibilities include driving total revenues by increasing RevPAR and gaining market share through the proper direction of the Sales and Front Office departments. She promotes and markets the hotel through various groups and clubs that she is active in such as East Peoria Rotary Club, Women in Leadership, and East Peoria Chamber of Commerce Ambassador's Club. Jody is a member of BNI, the world’s largest business referral organization, in which she has assisted in transferring and hosting the chapter at the Hampton Inn in East Peoria. In 2007 Jody became a Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) with American Hotel & Lodging Association Educational Institute.

Olline Taylor
General Manager
Holiday Inn Express and Suites, Champaign-Urbana, IL

Olline Taylor joined JDC in July of 2007 as the General Manager for the Holiday Inn Express and Suites. Olline is responsible for the overall operations of the Holiday Inn Express in Urbana. Olline has a bachelor's degree in Business Communications and an associate's degree in Liberal Arts. Olline received her Intercontinental Hotel Group General Managers certificate in February 2008.

Olline has an extensive background in customer service, training and development in the staffing industry as well as a concentration in payroll and finance. Her previous experience includes managing payment centers in southeastern Wisconsin for Time Warner Cable.

The mission of JDC has become her personal mission to inspire and instill core values in the employees of JDC, along with offering consistent value while providing quality accommodations to the guests.

Ozkan Dogan
General Manager
Hampton Inn, Springfield, IL

Ozkan Dogan joined JDC in November 2007 as the General Manager for the Hampton Inn Springfield. Ozkan graduated in 1990 with an associate’s degree in Hospitality Management and Service from Izmir 9 Eylul University in Turkey. Ozkan’s experience in the hospitality industry includes working in all departments for a number of different hotels in Turkey.

With an interest in technology, Ozkan graduated in 2006 from LLCC with a second associate’s degree in Computer Programming. Prior to joining JDC, Ozkan’s previous job experience includes working for a local Engineering Company as a business administrator and working for the Holiday Inn Express and the Crowne Plaza as a credit manager.

Ruth A. Oberholtzer - Director of Sales
Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center
Holiday Inn Express
Champaign-Urbana, IL


Ruth Oberholtzer joined JDC in 2009 as the director of sales for the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center and the Holiday Inn Express Champaign-Urbana, IL. Ruth’s overall responsibilities include aggressively driving total revenues by increasing RevPAR and market share by implementing sales strategies targeted for both immediate and long term results. Managing a sense of urgency, focused sales strategies, a clear understanding of responsibilities and benchmarks for accountability for the sales staff to exceed goals and expectations will develop the staff and provide a catalyst to exceed goals. Advanced sales and team training and the development of strategic alliances, both internal and external, will expedite goal achievements.

Ruth brings many years of sales, marketing, and operations experience to Johnson Development Company including Holiday Inns, Hilton, Marriot, and Destination Resorts. She won an annual Marketing Achievement award from Marriot and Top Sales Award for the year for a multi-brand franchise. Ruth has taught sales, developed workshops, created manuals, and consulted hotels. Giving back to her community has proven essential to her success.

Phyllis DeRosear, CHSP
Director of Sales
Hampton Inn and Suites &
Hampton Inn, Springfield, IL

Phyllis DeRosear joined JDC in July 2006 as the Direct of Sales for the Hampton Inn and Suites and the Hampton Inn. Phyllis's responsibilities include developing and implementing sales strategies aligned with the company's mission, vision and values, in addition to maximizing revenue for JDC hotels. Her focus is on Hampton Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn Springfield.

Phyllis is a certified Hampton sales director and a Hampton Ultimate Sales Professional graduate. She also earned the designation of Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. This recognition demonstrates Phyllis's expertise, professionalism and dedication to the hospitality industry.

Sherri White, CHA
General Manager
Hampton Inn and Suites, Springfield, IL

Sherri White joined JDC in October of 2006 as the General Manger for the Hampton Inn and Suites. Sherri's responsibilities with JDC include the overall management of the Hampton Inn and Suite's hotel operations in Springfield, IL. Her duties include financial planning and control, developing and executing business plans, guest services, sales and marketing, profit management, human resource management, payroll, asset management, and the overall management of employee activities.

Sherri brings eight years of hotel management experience to JDC. As a General Manager, she is a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) from the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Terry Truman, CHA
General Manager
Staybridge Suites, Springfield, IL

Terry Truman joined JDC in October 2005 as the General Manager for the Staybridge Suites Hotel. A 15 year veteran of the industry, Terry is a graduate of Western Illinois University where he has a bachelor's of Science in History. While working on his master's degree at UIS, Terry worked as a guest service agent at the Holiday Inn East in Springfield, Illinois. It is there that Terry decided to pursue a career in the hotel industry.

After training in several different departments Terry moved next door to operate the reservations department for the newly opened Crowne Plaza and later also the Holiday Inn Express. Following a ten year stint canvassing three hotel companies, Terry went to work for the Comfort Suites in Terre Haute, Indiana as their General Manager. Following one year in Terre Haute, Terry took the job as General Manager of the Staybridge Suites in Springfield, Illinois.

Terry is certified in a number of areas in the hotel industry. These areas include: Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA), certified state of Illinois food handling license, certified in TIPS training, certified in CPR and attended the Intercontinental Hotel's Group General Manager Leadership seminar. Terry is also the current Vice-President of the Springfield Hotel and Lodging Association.

Our mission is to offer consistent value while providing quality accommodations to our guests.

Catie Franks, CHSP - Director of Sales
Cindy Harris, CHA - General Manager
Darrin Thurman - General Manager
David C. Kimsey, CPA, CHA - CFO/Management Oversight
George R. Johnson - President/CEO
Joshua Young - Accountant
Lindsey Gingerich - Director of Sales Hampton Inn, Springfield, Illinois
Marilyn Medica - Chief Legal Counsel/Regional Director of Sale
Mark Vanhala - Director of Sales
Ozkan Dogan - General Manager
Stephanie Thiry - Director of Quality and Compliance Support
Terry Truman, CHA - General Manager