The IHG Owners Association representing the interests of more than 5,000 owners of IHG Hotels & Resorts properties around the world, has appointed Indian American hotelier Prakash Maggan, Principal & CFO of Rainmaker Hospitality, as Chair of its Global Board of Directors for 2026.
“Maggan’s blend of financial discipline, operational experience and long-standing involvement with the Association position him to guide key initiatives and advocacy throughout the year,” Atlanta, Georgia-based association announced in a news release.
The association helps strengthen members’ returns on their investments in IHG hotels by advocating on behalf of its members to IHG leadership on standards and initiatives related to hotel operations and issues facing the wider hospitality industry.
Maggan’s background as a second-generation hotelier has shaped both his entrepreneurial roots and leadership approach, according to the release. He earned his degree in accounting from Transylvania University before attending the University of Dayton School of Law, a foundation that has supported his strategic approach to growing and managing his complex hospitality portfolio.
He went on to obtain his CPA license before playing a central role in transforming his family’s business into Rainmaker Hospitality, which has grown from eight to 29 hotels in two states supported by a team of over 600 colleagues.
“Hotel owners today are navigating a rapidly evolving environment, and the Association plays an important role in helping them stay competitive and informed,” Maggan says, noting that collaboration and practical solutions will be at the core of his approach. “I’m looking forward to working closely with our members and IHG Hotels & Resorts to advance Strategic Plan initiatives that support long-term performance and growth for our hotels.”
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Within the Association, Maggan has significantly contributed to several key owner volunteer positions, including serving on the Board since 2024, as chair of the Technology Committee and as vice chair of the Americas Regional Council.
Steve Sickel, newly appointed CEO of the IHG Owners Association, expressed confidence in Maggan’s leadership as he transitions into his own role. “Prakash brings a grounded, owner-focused perspective to the table,” Sickel says. “His operational understanding and strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue shaping the Association’s priorities and programs. I’m very much looking forward to working with him.”
Beyond his hospitality business, Maggan serves on the Board of Trustees at Transylvania University and has volunteered at several local organizations, including the Kentucky Travel Industry Association and Providence Montessori.
The IHG Owners Association also announced its 2026 Global Board of Directors, including five Indian Americans: Asad Malik, Chair Elect & AMER Member at Large – President & CEO, Amerilodge Group; Manish Patel, Secretary & AMER Regional Representative – CEO, MKP Management, Inc; Dhaval Brahmbhatt, AMER Member at Large – Principal, Hotel Operations & Asset Management, Prominence Hospitality Group; Shazma Charania, AMER Member at Large – President, Zainul & Shazma (ZS) Holdings; Ketan Patel, AMER Member at Large – Co-founder, ROHM Group, LLC.