About MasterBUILT

Achieving Together

Reshaping Canada’s Hotel Landscape

MasterBUILT Hotels is a privately owned, Calgary-based hotel development, management and investment company.

At MasterBUILT, we believe in respect – respect for our partners, respect for our guests, and respect for the land and communities in which we operate. We believe in inclusivity, in charitable actions, and in creating and investing in smart, impactful developments that add value to society and serve a greater purpose. MasterBUILT is a concierge to your success.

We know a company needs to be more than just its product or service. It is our mission to make a positive impact through a best-in-class hotel guest and franchise experience. We strive to alter the tourism and travel landscape by offering affordable, versatile options for everyone. We work to support local Canadian businesses by creating opportunities and accessibility. We are committed to working alongside First Nations communities and creating projects that benefit the land developed and the local people. We seek to enrich the sector as a whole and ensure absolute customer satisfaction because we believe in being the best that we can be.

OUR BRANDS: Microtel® AND ECHO SuitesSM Extended Stay

MasterBUILT holds the Canadian licensing rights for two Wyndham brands: Microtel Inn & Suites and the all-new ECHO Suites Extended Stay. We support investors with all aspects of their franchise, including development and construction. MasterBUILT also offers hotel management and asset management services as part of a turnkey solution.

A REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE

MasterBUILT is proud to boast some of our winning accomplishments, such as being an 8-time recipient of Canada’s Best Managed Companies pushing us into Platinum Level status. The Microtel brand has been named one of the most dynamic, fastest-growing hotel concepts in the country. We also established Common Ground, a first-of-its-kind hotel donations program that collects and distributes funds back to local, regional, and national causes. These are just some of the things that make our brand unique.

With MasterBUILT, we are eager to build a brighter future that balances profit with purpose – and we are ready to prove it.

COMMON GROUND

the words "common ground"The first hotel donations program of its kind in Canada, Common Ground was created by the MasterBUILT Hotels leadership team as a way to say ‘thank you’ and support the communities where we build and operate.

Since launching Common Ground in 2016, it has been our privilege to build even deeper roots and partnerships in these vibrant communities. We are committed to working closely with the dedicated organizations that uplift these areas through charitable work. As we move forward, we promise to continue to promote socially responsible practices across all of our hotels, while giving back to the community.

Hotels are operated pursuant to a license from Wyndham Hotel Group Canada ULC. Neither Wyndham Hotel Group Canada ULC, Microtel Inns and Suites Franchising, Inc. nor any of their affiliates endorse or are affiliated with Common Ground or MasterBuilt Hotels, and make no representation with regard to those organizations.

Meet Our Team

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David DonaldsonPresident & CEO MasterBUILT Hotels
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David’s approach to entrepreneurial management has delivered executive leadership and capital returns to a broad range of businesses including franchise car and truck rental, distribution and logistics, technology, manufacturing, and retail food and consumer goods. Innovation and teamwork, matched with integrity and collaboration have been the keys to his approach to both internal and external relationships. David offers a proven track- record in building and adapting a mission for improved margins, accountability, and results.
Prior to establishing Grandville Equities Corporation, David excelled as a senior manager and executive within three large distribution and retail businesses: in each, he was responsible for 350- 450 union/non-union employees, and senior managers. He completed the construction and operations of downstream oil and gas facilities, transportation, and warehousing facilities as well as intermodal rail and truck operations. David holds two undergraduate degrees from the University of Calgary, an MBA from Queens University, and a Global Professional Masters of Law degree, from the University of Toronto.

Donna Fahey
Donna FaheyChief Operating Officer
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Donna occupies a fundamental role at MasterBUILT as the Chief Operating Officer, steering the execution of daily administrative and operational functions. Boasting more than two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Donna brings a substantial reservoir of expertise. Her background includes the oversight of sales, marketing, and operations with reputable Canadian resort development and management companies, along with globally recognized brands such as Marriott and Wyndham Hotel Group. Donna’s dedication and proficiency lie in curating exceptional experiences for guests, team members and shareholders.

Rhonda Holland
Rhonda HollandChief Financial Officer
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Rhonda brings to MasterBUILT an extensive accounting and finance background with 20+ years of reporting for public and private companies, and NPO’s. Rhonda recently spent 6 years in a senior accounting role with Brookfield Residential, one of North America’s largest developer/builders publicly traded on the TSX and NYSE. Rhonda possesses 10+ years of experience within global multi-divisional construction/engineering firms and 6+ years providing strategic oversight and financial reporting for executive leadership teams and investor groups.

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Rebecca WoodNational Director of Sales
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Rebecca is an accomplished professional with a passion for leadership development and sales excellence. With a career spanning various sectors, including for-profit companies, not-for-profit organizations, and government, Rebecca has left a mark on the business landscape in both Canada and the United States.

Recognized for exceptional coaching, she received the prestigious Sandler Sales Manager of the Year award, and in 2021, founded Romeo Whiskey Consulting, earning acclaim for her ability to inspire and drive success in others.

While thriving in the entrepreneurial realm, Rebecca’s passion for sales leadership led her to MasterBUILT Hotels. As the National Director of Sales, she leads a bilingual and remote team, propelling them to new heights with a strategic vision.

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Chad MagasDirector of Construction
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Chad is a seasoned Director of Construction with over twelve years of invaluable experience in Project Management. Throughout his career, Chad has been a driving force in various construction initiatives, ensuring each project not only meets expectations but exceeds them. His focus on building within schedule and budget constraints has set him apart in the industry, earning him a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

Chad’s expertise extends beyond the technical aspects of construction. Adept at managing stakeholders and navigating the intricate web of project dynamics, his commitment to excellence is evident in his ability to consistently deliver results that go above and beyond.

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Abby TiangcoDirector of Human Resources
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With over ten years of human resources experience, including support to small and medium-sized enterprises in diverse sectors such as hospitality, oil and gas, IT, and retail sectors, Abby brings a wealth of knowledge in her field.

Playing a key role in nurturing the vibrant culture at MasterBUILT, Abby oversees human resources initiatives for both the corporate team and MasterBUILT’s expanding portfolio of managed hotels. Abby is distinguished by her distinctive and strategic approach to human resources management, encompassing the implementation of industry-leading best practices, compliance measures, and the development of programs that empower team members in their career journey and personal growth.

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Ryan CochraneDirector of Operations
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Ryan is a skilled hospitality professional serving as the Director of Operations at MasterBUILT Hotels. With a steadfast commitment, Ryan oversees the success of MasterBUILT-managed hotels, driving operational efficiency and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

With over 25 years in the hospitality industry, Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of hotel and restaurant management. His leadership prowess extends to mentoring and guiding hotel managers and fostering a culture of excellence.

Throughout his career, Ryan has cultivated a deep passion for hospitality, evident in his dedication to elevating guest satisfaction and operational standards. His comprehensive expertise spans hotel and restaurant management, honed through esteemed affiliations with IHG, Choice, Marriott, and Wyndham.

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Antonio PiazzaDirector of Hotel and Franchise Sales
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Antonio is a University of Guelph Business Administration graduate with an extensive career in tech, finance, and commercial real estate.
Through collaborating with Municipalities in Ontario to optimize lands and create development programs, Antonio’s expertise spans commercial, retail, office, and industrial sectors, facilitating transactions from smaller multi-family properties to multi-million-dollar land developments.

With a strong background in business development and capital raising, Antonio brings a wealth of knowledge to the MasterBUILT team, creating new opportunities that ultimately aid the expansion of the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham brand and the launch of ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

MasterBUILT FAQs

Will rising inflation impact ADR and ROI?

They are not directly correlated. However, with rising operational costs (such as labour, operating, and fixed supplies) hotel owners/ operators have responded by increasing rates. This has led to an uptick in ADR. Since pricing is dynamic, MasterBUILT works continuously to optimize rates and generate the highest possible margins for our franchise owners.

Is it better to buy an existing hotel or build new?
New construction allows owners to build an attractive, modern property that meets the demands and expectations of today’s consumers – without many of the uncertainties and challenges that can come with renovating an existing property. Microtel and ECHO Suites both require new construction. MasterBUILT can help you determine if a new Microtel or ECHO Suites is viable in your market and if market demand will result in attractive topline figures. We’ll help evaluate real estate options and identify any barriers to entry (such as restrictive covenants) to ensure a new build is the right choice.
How does MasterBUILT assess markets and sites? What is your measure of success?

As part of our holistic approach, we analyze various market trends and demographics: including current hotel inventory performance, regional and local economic activity, demographic trends, largescale developments, events & attractions and more. In established markets, we complete a sensitivity analysis to determine the impact of the new room supply on the market (looking for RevPAR forecasts exceeding $100). In less-established markets, extensive research is involved to assess market viability and project current/ future demand.

Can MasterBUILT manage my hotel on my behalf?

MasterBUILT has a proven track record as an experienced national hotelier. We handle all aspects of operations to the highest professional standards. Our turnkey operations management service includes budgeting, staffing, pricing, lounge management, supplies, marketing and much more. We also offer complete asset management services.

CanadianMasterBUILT can professionally manage any Canadian Microtel or ECHO Suites property as your management partner. The Microtel locations managed by MasterBUILT are consistently recognized among the brand’s top-performing North American properties, with Microtel Val-d’Or winning ‘Canadian Hotel of the Year’ at Wyndham’s 2023 Global Conference.

Can MasterBUILT take over management after the first few years?

Microtel and ECHO Suites properties managed by MasterBUILT from day one are at a significant advantage. MasterBUILT ensures a strong sales & marketing, accounting and asset management team is in place to capitalize on the momentum of a new build – and lay the foundation for long-term success. In cases where an investor chooses to self-manage a hotel, or work with a third party, only to reconsider, MasterBUILT has been successful at turning around underperforming properties.

What is included as part of MasterBUILT’s development services?

As a managing partner, we’re successful when you are. We only build in locations where research shows a Microtel or ECHO Suites will thrive. Our properties come complete with our building and prototype toolbox. We bring negotiating power with trades and affiliations. We can search for government grants or funding. And we can even work as a liaison between builders and owners. We take each project seriously, as our reputation depends on it.

Microtel FAQs

How is Microtel construction priced?

To simplify our budgeting & proforma process, streamline costs and provide greater predictability, Microtel by Wyndham has moved to a standardized 76-room/ 8,525 sq ft design plan (available in three amenity packages). We also have detailed knowledge of labour and material costs across the country, having launched 24 new properties nationwide.

How does Microtel compare to other brands?

Microtel is a flagship brand of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel company. It is a new-construction midscale property. Competitors include Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Plus, Fairfield by Marriott, Hampton Inn by Hilton. A streamlined design process and efficient footprint provide unparalleled value in this 76-room property with an optional pool/waterslide and Lobby Bar & Lounge.

How long does it take to develop a Microtel in Canada?

Once a favourable market has been identified, the first step is to gain control/ownership of the specific site. Site acquisition, development and building permits, and market studies can be completed simultaneously and can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. After the ground is broken, it typically takes 12 to 15 months to build and open a Microtel (18 to 27 months total).

ECHO Suites Extended Stay FAQs

Is ECHO Suites new to Wyndham or new to Canada?

Wyndham introduced ECHO Suites Extended Stay to the US market in 2022. Based on the growing demand for extended-stay accommodation, the ECHO brand is now expanding into Canada under the experienced guidance of MasterBUILT Hotels.

What are the main features and land requirements of ECHO Suites? 

ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham is a purpose-built, all-new construction property, designed for operational efficiency. The 124-room property is approximately 50,000 square feet, with an average room size of 300 square feet, built on two acres of land. The hotel offers a selection of both single-queen and two-queen studio suites with kitchens. The hotel’s amenities include a lobby, fitness centre, and 24/7 guest laundry facilities.

What type of guest does ECHO Suites appeal to? 

ECHO Suites provides modern, affordable, medium-term accommodations for stays of 7 or more nights, including monthly and annual residencies. Both annual and monthly stays will be common among guests who will have the benefit of a kitchen in their guestroom and access to a shared laundry facility.

There are two main audiences for ECHO as an extended-stay hotel: (1) Corporate travellers who may be in town for the duration of a project or a short-term contract; and (2) Those seeking transitional or temporary housing. Echo Suites could be seen as having the dual benefit of being both hospitality-based and/or housing-based.

What are the operational requirements of ECHO Suites? 

Extended-stay guests are more self-sufficient with minimal needs. With minimal housekeeping and guest service requirements, ECHO Suites has minimal staffing and operational requirements. Generally, ECHO can operate with ¼ of the labour of a traditional hotel (7 staff members). This results in significant savings for the bottom line.

What is the business model and optimal investment? 

Extended-stay properties target long-term guests which naturally results in less guest-turnover and greater occupancy predictability. This furthers the cost-effectiveness of a modular build. To discuss costs based on your market and equity investment, contact MasterBUILT Hotels.

How does ECHO Suites compare to other hotel brands? 

Currently, there is limited competition in the extended-stay hotel market in Canada. This combined with the continual rise in demand for extended-stay accommodations presents an excellent opportunity for Echo Suites and investors. Wyndham’s prototype for ECHO Suites prioritizes hotel-owner return on investment with an emphasis on value-engineered and streamlined operations that optimize operating margins.