Santhosh Pillai

Executive Senior Vice President
Santhosh Pillai, our Executive Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, brings a wealth of expertise in accounting, computer technology, and operations management to Cicero Hospitality Group.
With a strategic focus on implementing centralized accounting systems using QuickBooks 2012 Enterprise database, Mr. Pillai has successfully overseen the management of Cicero’s diverse property portfolio.
His leadership extends to specialized proficiency in property bankruptcy accounting, showcasing his commitment to ensuring financial stability.
Managing all aspects of the group’s Information Technology (IT) infrastructure, Mr. Pillai excels in the setup of Virtual Private Networks and teleconferencing, further enhancing our operational efficiency.
Drawing from his background at NuSoft Solutions and Microsoft, he has implemented advanced technology solutions, enabling Cicero Hospitality Group to maintain a cutting-edge approach in project, finance, and personnel management from any location nationwide.

Christopher Yerke
Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Director of Revenue
Christopher Yerke brings over twenty-two years of enriching experience in the hospitality sector, having commenced his illustrious career with the Promus Hotel Corporation. His extensive management journey, spanning various markets and cities across the United States, has equipped him with profound insights into sophisticated revenue management, channel connectivity, and systems integration. With a notable background overseeing Revenue Management strategies for distinguished properties like Doubletree and Embassy Suites by Hilton, Mr. Yerke has been at the forefront of implementing yield management software, formulating policies and procedures, and conducting comprehensive training programs.
In his role as the Regional Director of Revenue Management for Cicero Hospitality Group, Mr. Yerke takes charge of pricing strategies, market positioning, and revenue maximization across our portfolio of hotels. His weekly Revenue Optimization meetings and close collaboration with front desk and sales teams ensure the seamless implementation of strategies, fostering efficiency and aligning each hotel’s revenue approach with corporate goals and expectations. Constantly monitoring and communicating fluctuations in occupancy and pricing, Mr. Yerke dedicates significant energy to uphold a cohesive and effective overall revenue strategy for each property.
A Michigan State University graduate, Mr. Yerke embarked on his distinguished hospitality career with the Promus Hotel Corporation, amassing over twenty-two years of progressive management experience. Throughout his journey, he has been instrumental in several high-profile property conversions and openings, notably contributing to the success of the AAA Four Diamond-rated Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Michigan, and the AAA Four Diamond-rated Inn at St John’s in Plymouth, Michigan. His expertise extends beyond revenue management, encompassing a diverse range of roles, including fostering close relationships with General Managers, Directors of Sales/Marketing, Revenue Managers/Directors, and Corporate Vice Presidents. Mr. Yerke is recognized as an executive with the experience, capability, and judgment to elevate properties to new heights by addressing deficiencies that hinder growth and prosperity.

Maria Osmano
Vice President of Operations & HR
Maria Osmano joined the organization in 2014 as an executive assistant to the Vice President. Over the past nine years, Maria has demonstrated exceptional growth within the Cicero family, progressing through roles such as Human Resource Manager, HR Director, Operations Director, Accounting Manager, and Corporate Starbucks Lead, culminating in her current position as the company’s VP of Operations. Maria she played a pivotal role in renovating properties, launching Starbucks outlets, and introducing innovative restaurant concepts. her noteworthy achievements include the opening of Cicero’s second Starbucks in downtown Detroit in 2021 and a third inside the Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital in 2022. Maria oversees operations and HR for three hotels, six Starbucks locations, and various entities within Cicero Hospitality.
Maria holds a J.D. from the University of Detroit School of Law and brings over a decade of event planning and recruiting experience for companies ranging upwards of 500 employees. Her dedication to both her career and family, coupled with a passion for hospitality, underscores her integral role in Cicero Hospitality.

Fadi Osmano
Vice President of Developments & Acquisitions
Fadi Osmano, Vice President of Developments & Acquisitions at Cicero Hospitality, graduated from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in business communication before embarking on a dynamic career journey. With an entrepreneurial spirit, Fadi successfully launched and managed a startup business in the Small Business sector, focusing on fast food and retail markets in Southern California.
His transition to Real Estate Acquisitions during the “Great Recession” showcased his commitment to assisting clients with residential, commercial, agricultural, and financing needs. Notably, Fadi played a crucial role in helping over 200 residents avoid foreclosure during that challenging period, earning him an active five-star customer service rating in all 50 states under the NMLS database.
In addition to his Business and Finance background, Fadi has recently expanded his expertise into the development side of the industry. During his tenure at Cicero Hospitality, he has overseen the renovation of over 60,000 square feet of office space, revitalized all 245 rooms at Hilton West Palm Beach, renovated more than 150 multi-family units, and completed the construction of a 5,000-square-foot medical practice in Monroe, Michigan. Fadi is also responsible for managing all Engineering aspects, including staffing and operations, across all Cicero Hospitality properties. Currently, he is actively pursuing an Engineering Degree at Oakland University, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and growth within the field.

Ermir Kulla
Vice President of Finance
Ermir Kulla, Vice President of Finance, is a distinguished leader in the corporate sector, bringing over 10 years of expertise in accounting and business management to Cicero Hospitality.
His extensive professional background encompasses financial reporting, internal controls, and a comprehensive understanding of controllership.
Ermir’s leadership is marked by a proven track record of building world-class teams through strategic hiring initiatives and enhancing business efficiency through innovative analytical skills and developmental acquisition proficiency.
With refined business acumen, he passionately guides corporate advancement by implementing strategic business reforms. Ermir’s commitment to excellence and strategic thinking positions him as a key driving force behind the financial success and growth of Cicero Hospitality.

Iliana Rushiti
Corporate Controller

Michael Murdoch
Senior Accountant

Randy Dickow
Director of Culinary Operations

Shawn Bray
Director of Hotel Technology

Suzana Gojcaj
Director of Marketing

Sonila Jubani
Accounting Assistant

Julie Camal
Executive Assistant
Essential Development/Construction Team

Dustin Maser
President of Essential Development
Dustin Maser, serving as the President of Essential Development at Cicero Hospitality, is a seasoned professional with over twenty years of extensive background in construction and project management within the realm of hospitality. With a profound commitment to excellence and a keen eye for detail, Dustin leads our construction endeavors with a strategic vision that aligns seamlessly with the principles of hospitality management.
Dustin’s expertise lies in orchestrating the successful execution of construction projects, ensuring that each property reflects the highest standards of quality and functionality. From groundbreaking to project completion, he oversees every phase with precision, ensuring that the design and construction align with the unique needs and aesthetic aspirations of each hospitality venture.
In the dynamic world of hospitality management, where the physical space is integral to guest experiences, Dustin’s role is pivotal. He not only navigates the complexities of construction logistics but also collaborates closely with other departments to ensure that the design and functionality of each property contribute to the overall success of Cicero Hospitality. Under his leadership, Cicero Hospitality continues to be the industry leaders in hospitality construction.

Doug Maser
Construction Supervisor

Corina Quinones
Construction Supervisor