Meet the Team Behind PHD Hotels

Tom Hunt founded PHD Hotels in 1998 and serves as the company’s chief strategist, guiding its development and investment direction. Under his leadership, PHD has developed nearly 30 hotels representing more than $300 million in investment, including properties affiliated with Marriott and Hilton brands.

Tom’s hospitality career began in hotel operations, where he worked his way into general management before bringing together investors to purchase the property he managed. Before founding PHD, he developed three Hampton hotels for an investment group, establishing the foundation for his subsequent work in hotel ownership and development.

Tom's experience also extends to brand advisory work. He has has served on the Hilton Garden Inn Advisory Council and participated in a focus group that helped shape the original Home2 Suites concept. His industry recognition includes Hilton Garden Inn’s 2003 Owner of the Year award, presented to Tom and his company, and Hilton’s 2005 Multi-Brand Developer of the Year award, shared with Howard Porter under the company’s former name, The Hotel Group.

Tom’s leadership is rooted in firsthand operating experience and an emphasis on supporting hotel teams. Hilton has recognized his hands-on ownership approach, respect for employees, and commitment to brand standards—principles that reflect PHD’s philosophy of “Practicing Hospitality Daily.”

Chris Chavis serves as President of PHD Hotels, overseeing hotel operations and the development of new projects. He began his hospitality career in 1992 while attending Auburn University, where he earned degrees in Accounting and Psychology. In 1998, he became the first person recruited by Tom Hunt to join PHD, beginning a leadership tenure that has spanned the company’s growth.

With more than three decades of industry experience, Chris brings a background in hotel operations, development, and financial management. His responsibilities include overseeing hotel financial reporting, communicating with investment partners, and supporting property leadership. During his tenure, PHD has developed nearly 30 hotels representing more than $300 million in investment, including properties affiliated with Marriott and Hilton brands.

Chris’s approach to growth emphasizes well-located hotels in markets with sustained demand. Recent company milestones during his presidency include the opening of Homewood Suites by Hilton in Town Madison and the acquisition of Aloft Birmingham Soho Square, expanding PHD’s presence in two of Alabama’s key hospitality markets.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Chris has served as President of the Kiwanis Club of Auburn and volunteered as a youth sports coach, reflecting his longstanding involvement in the Auburn–Opelika community.

Jim Hunt serves as Vice President of PHD Hotels, supporting hotel operations, revenue management, and new development. He began his career with the company in 2011 at the front desk of Hampton Inn & Suites in Opelika, Alabama. After advancing into property management, he joined PHD’s corporate office in 2013 to assist with the existing portfolio and new hotel projects.

Jim works closely with individual hotel management teams to develop revenue strategies and strengthen property performance. His responsibilities also include property visits and inspections, helping general managers maintain the quality of accommodations and service guests expect. His progression from front-desk operations to corporate leadership provides firsthand experience with both daily hotel responsibilities and broader business objectives.

Jim attended Auburn University, where his studies included a minor in Business. During his time at Auburn, he participated in the Forestry Club and served in leadership roles with the Committee of 19, the university’s student organization focused on fighting hunger.