Hilton has appointed Mark Kochhar as Director, Franchise Development, Canada, reinforcing its leadership bench as the company accelerates growth across a key North American market.
The move comes as Hilton builds on significant momentum in Canada, where it recently crossed the milestone of 200 hotels and has nearly doubled its footprint over the past decade.
Based in Toronto and originally from Vancouver, Kochhar brings more than three decades of hospitality experience, including over 13 years with Hilton. His background spans hotel development, owner relations, brand management, and operational performance, capabilities seen as critical to scaling franchise-led growth.
In his new role, Kochhar will lead franchise development efforts across Western Canada, working closely with owners, investors, and partners to drive new hotel signings and advance projects through Hilton’s pipeline. The position is expected to play a key role in strengthening local market engagement while supporting the brand’s broader expansion strategy.
Kochhar most recently served as Director, Owner Relations, Canada, where he worked with hotel owners and operators nationwide to ensure brand alignment and performance. Earlier in his career, he held on-property leadership roles, including General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn Toronto City Centre, giving him both operational and corporate perspective.
He is also active within the wider industry, serving on the board of the Hotel Association of Canada, reflecting his deep integration into the country’s hospitality ecosystem.
The appointment signals Hilton’s continued focus on franchise-driven expansion in Canada, with experienced in-market leadership seen as key to unlocking new development opportunities and strengthening relationships with ownership groups.
