Four Seasons hires GM and commercial director ahead of 2027 planned opening

GM Melissa Sims comes from Four Seasons in Santa Fe and commercial director Tony Rodriguez has been with organization four decades, including roles in Florida

Four Seasons hires GM and commercial director.

By Doug Filaroski

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Jacksonville announced today key leadership appointments, including general manager Melissa Sims and Commercial Director Tony Rodriguez, ahead of the world-renowned resort’s opening tentatively set for mid-2027.

Located along the St. Johns River near EverBank Stadium, the development is being built by Shanna Collective and the family of Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan.

Sims brings two decades of experience with Four Seasons to her new role as general manager, where she will oversee hotel operations, organizational culture and guest experience. She most recently served as general manager of Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe in New Mexico.

Melissa Simms hired as new Four Seasons GM (LEROY SKALSTAD)

“The energy of an opening is unmatched, but what excites me most is the opportunity to become part of this community,” Sims said.

Rodriguez joins the pre-opening team as commercial director, bringing more than three decades of experience with Four Seasons. His background includes executive roles across Florida, landmark property openings, repositioning projects and multi-property commercial strategy.

“From the moment I first visited the site, I understood that this was about far more than opening a beautiful hotel,” Rodriguez said. “We are not coming to Jacksonville to redefine what already makes the city special. Our role is to build on those strengths by bringing the care, craftsmanship and service Four Seasons is known for while creating experiences that feel authentically Jacksonville.”

The development will feature direct marina access along the St. Johns River, along with the 170-room hotel and 26 ultra-luxury residences.

The residences, where price start at $4.7 million, range from 1,930 to 7,936 square feet. Shad Khan, along with daughter Shanna Khan and son Tony Khan, will reportedly purchase three of the four penthouse suites.

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