Smith Hill Capital names Connor Carey Vice President—and with that, a new chapter in private credit and hospitality investment begins across the US. This isn’t just a title change. It’s a calculated, strategic move to accelerate private credit growth and deepen hospitality investment in key markets.

As the U.S. travel and real estate sectors evolve rapidly, Smith Hill Capital positions itself to lead the next wave. And now, with Carey stepping into this high-impact role, the firm signals its intent to scale faster, execute smarter, and build deeper partnerships in a competitive lending space.

But what makes this promotion so timely—and so telling?

It’s more than leadership. It’s about foresight, momentum, and unlocking untapped potential in a shifting financial landscape.

Expect bold moves. Expect market shifts. Because Smith Hill Capital’s latest decision puts a proven dealmaker at the forefront of change—and the impact could reshape the future of middle-market hospitality lending across the U.S.

Smith Hill Capital Strengthens Leadership to Drive Hospitality Lending Expansion

Smith Hill Capital, the private credit and commercial real estate debt arm of Procaccianti Companies, has announced a strategic leadership promotion that’s poised to shake up the middle-market lending landscape. Connor Carey has been elevated to Vice President, marking a pivotal step in the firm’s aggressive national growth trajectory.

This promotion comes at a critical time. The hospitality industry is rebounding fast, and capital is flowing back into redevelopment, acquisitions, and debt restructuring deals. Smith Hill Capital is seizing this momentum, and Carey’s appointment is more than a title change—it’s a power play to lead expansion from the front lines.

Private Credit Demand Surges in Hospitality Real Estate

Across the U.S., hospitality assets are regaining their pre-pandemic momentum, but traditional lenders remain cautious. That’s where private credit firms like Smith Hill Capital step in.

By focusing on middle-market hotel properties, Smith Hill Capital bridges the funding gap with speed, flexibility, and institutional-grade execution. And under Carey’s leadership, this approach is only gaining traction.

Investors are seeking yield. Operators are seeking growth. Carey’s ability to structure complex transactions and deliver win-win outcomes positions the firm as a go-to capital partner for boutique and branded hospitality owners alike.

Why Carey’s Promotion Signals a Bigger Industry Shift

Carey’s promotion isn’t just internal news. It reflects a broader trend reshaping how capital flows in hospitality.

As Vice President, Carey will now lead strategic initiatives across lending and capital markets—driving portfolio growth while strengthening relationships with borrowers, equity partners, and institutional investors.

In an environment defined by rising interest rates and inflationary pressures, Smith Hill Capital’s lending model offers predictability and speed. That’s why this leadership change matters. It signals that the firm is doubling down on what’s working—and planning for scale.

Moreover, Carey’s track record shows a clear path to that growth. His impact since joining Smith Hill Capital has been transformative, touching everything from deal origination to portfolio structuring.

Smith Hill Capital: Scaling with Precision and Purpose

The private credit platform under Smith Hill Capital continues to evolve with a laser focus on hospitality assets across secondary and tertiary U.S. markets—areas where institutional capital rarely plays but where the opportunity is rich.

From select-service properties in Florida to upscale independents in the Midwest, Smith Hill’s execution model pairs quick decision-making with long-term partnership thinking. Carey’s promotion strengthens this model by ensuring consistent leadership across every stage of the lending process.

This consistent, hands-on engagement is exactly what the industry needs now—someone who knows the field, reads market cycles, and adapts in real time.

Capital Markets Confidence Amid Economic Complexity

While many institutions hesitate in today’s unpredictable landscape, Smith Hill Capital is building confidence among borrowers and investors alike.

By putting Carey in charge of capital markets strategy, the firm gains a well-rounded leader who understands not only the financing mechanics but also the human relationships behind every deal. His role will be instrumental in scaling Smith Hill’s pipeline, optimizing capital deployment, and ensuring disciplined risk management.

And that spells long-term value for all stakeholders—from sponsors to debt investors.

The Bigger Picture: Private Credit’s Growing Role in Travel & Hospitality

This move comes as private credit assets under management top $1.5 trillion globally. Within that, hospitality-focused lending is rising rapidly, driven by the post-pandemic repositioning of hotels, new build developments, and distressed debt opportunities.

Smith Hill Capital is uniquely positioned to thrive in this evolving market. Carey’s promotion ensures the firm can deploy capital with greater speed and sophistication, helping properties navigate uncertainty while capturing upside.

It’s not just about funding deals—it’s about shaping the future of the hospitality landscape in cities and regions hungry for travel-driven economic revival.

What This Means for the U.S. Hotel Sector

As the travel recovery gains steam, particularly in domestic leisure and hybrid business segments, hotels are repositioning fast. Renovations, adaptive reuses, and rebranding efforts all require financing—and fast.

With Carey’s expanded role, Smith Hill Capital can meet that need with a higher degree of agility and innovation.

From distressed acquisitions to cash-out refinances and ground-up construction, the firm’s lending platform is built to unlock value in every scenario. Carey’s promotion ensures that execution stays sharp—and relationships stay strong.

What Industry Players Should Do Now

For hotel owners and developers exploring financing options in 2025, the message is clear: Smith Hill Capital is open for business—and growing stronger.

Those seeking strategic debt partners should look to leaders like Carey, who combine deal fluency with a clear understanding of hospitality’s unique dynamics. Expect faster decisions, tailored structures, and long-term partnership opportunities.

At a time when conventional capital is tightening, Smith Hill Capital offers flexibility without sacrificing financial discipline.

The Road Ahead: Strategic Leadership Fuels Strategic Lending

Connor Carey’s rise to Vice President marks a turning point for Smith Hill Capital and signals a new phase of intentional, high-impact lending in hospitality real estate.

The firm’s growth plan is clear. The market opportunity is massive. And with the right leadership in place, Smith Hill is ready to accelerate—deal by deal, market by market.

As the U.S. hotel sector enters its next chapter, this promotion proves that the right people in the right roles can turn opportunity into lasting advantage.

The post Smith Hill Capital Names Connor Carey Vice President in Strategic Move to Accelerate Private Credit Growth and Hospitality Investment Across the US appeared first on Travel And Tour World.