Waldorf Astoria Chicago Welcomes New General Manager Tamas Vago
Waldorf Astoria Chicago is pleased to announce the appointment of Tamas Vago as the luxury hotel's General Manager. Since joining the property team this fall, he has overseen guest experience and hotel operations of the 214-room property, including the on-site culinary and beverage venues Brass Tack and Bernard's, renowned spa and over 9,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Vago joins Waldorf Astoria Chicago from Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort and brings extensive knowledge of the luxury hospitality industry from his nearly 25 years of experience. In his new role with Waldorf Astoria Chicago, he plans to build upon the hotel's legacy as a world-class destination continuing to deliver unforgettable experiences for guests.
After beginning his tenure at Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in August 2019, Vago spearheaded the resort's full renovation of guestrooms and public spaces and assisted with conceptualizing a new rooftop restaurant and bar experience. Through his and his team's efforts, they achieved record-breaking revenue and occupancy performances since the resort's opening in 2007. Prior to Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Vago served as Hotel Manager at The Diplomat Beach Resort where he held the position from 2015 through 2019. At The Diplomat Beach Resort, he was responsible for all operating departments and oversaw a $100 million renovation and brand repositioning while managing the opening of 12 new restaurant concepts at the resort.
Originally from Hungary, Vago began his career in food and beverage, where he held various culinary positions in Budapest and in New Orleans, Nicaragua and Chicago with InterContinental Hotels Group. During his time at The InterContinental Chicago, Vago transitioned to the front of house, where he held roles including, Assistant Director of Food & Beverage and Director of Food & Beverage, before relocating to South Florida in 2010.
Vago is passionate about immersing himself in his community. During his time in South Florida, he emerged as a leader in the community, where he served as a Board Member and Executive Committee Member for the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce for four years. He was also recognized by MogulRecruiter as a TOP 100 GM in the U.S.
"This is an exciting, full-circle moment for me, as Chicago has had such an impact on my career and life," said Vago. "I have joined the team at an exciting time, as the property recently debuted a beautiful renovation and continues to push the needle with our innovative and unsurpassed programming and elegant guest services. I am eager to be involved in what the future has in store for our beloved hotel."