Ulrich Samietz

Carmel Valley Ranch, a resort playground for all ages on 500 acres in the foothills of California's Central Coast, has appointed Ulrich Samietz as its new managing director. With hospitality experience spanning nearly 40 years at various Hyatt properties, Samietz is poised to lead The Ranch to new heights while continuing to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Renowned for an unwavering commitment to hospitality excellence and for his mentorship of fellow colleagues, Samietz brings vast expertise—and a stellar industry reputation—to his new role at The Ranch. He has led luxury resorts across the globe, including Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa, Hyatt Regency Vancouver, Park Hyatt Carmel-Highlands Inn, and others. At Highlands Inn, he helmed the world-renowned epicurean celebration, Masters of Food and Wine, alongside legends such as Julia Child, Gordon Ramsay, Eric Ripert, Marcus Samuelsson, Jean-Louis Palladin, and Jacques Pépin.

A native of Gelnhausen, Germany, Samietz spent his formative years living across Europe, the U.S., and Asia—and found his passion for travel and hospitality during college while working in a hotel in Zurich, Switzerland. After graduating from the International School in Manila and earning a hospitality degree at Florida State University, he moved to Chicago to begin his career with Hyatt.

Throughout his career, Samietz has been recognized for his ability to foster a culture of teamwork, innovation, and personalized service. His leadership philosophy centers on empowering staff to exceed guest expectations and consistently raise the bar for excellence.

Carmel Valley Ranch
Carmel Valley Ranch
Carmel, California
United States