Thomas (Mac) McFarland Gregory III, widely known as Mac Gregory, was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and raised on the West Coast. He is a distinguished executive leader with extensive experience in the International Hospitality Community. Mac pursued higher education at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a minor in Spanish. His interest in hospitality was evident early on, setting the stage for a remarkable career in the hospitality and food & beverage industry.

Mac Gregory's career spans over 25 years, during which he has held numerous influential positions across prestigious organizations. He began his journey while still in college in 1989 at Club Med Resorts, where he excelled as a mixologist and eventually took on roles such as beverage director and corporate paymaster. His foundational experiences there equipped him with valuable skills in guest service and food & beverage management.

In 1993, Mac transitioned to Hyatt Regency Hotels & Resorts, where he played a critical role in opening and establishing multiple properties. His tenure at Hyatt saw him rise through various ranks, including hotel general manager and director of food and beverage, as he developed and implemented innovative venue concepts that enhanced the brand's reputation. Notably, he was chosen by the Pritzker family to open and establish their equity-owned properties, significantly shaping the Hyatt Worldwide Portfolio through innovative food and beverage concepts.

In 2007, he became the Executive Senior Director of Food and Beverage at the renowned Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. His leadership there led to the introduction of several award-winning dining venues. His innovative work earned him the Cheers Innovator of the Year Award in 2009 and recognition as one of the World’s Top 25 Mixologists by Bacardi International in 2010. By 2011, Mac was appointed as the Corporate Vice President of Food and Beverage for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where he oversaw a portfolio of more than 1,200 bars and restaurants across 489 properties.

In 2014, he took on the role of CEO at Saint Marc Holdings, where he oversaw 2,700 international venues and introduced the Japanese company to the U.S. market, successfully launching two flagship restaurants in California. Currently, Mac serves as the Corporate Vice President of Food and Beverage at Pacifica Hotels, the largest boutique hotel operator on the West Coast, where he oversees the development and operational direction of the company’s food and beverage portfolio that includes owned, operated & managed select & full-service lifestyle brands from Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, Choice and IHG Kimpton.

Commitment to Excellence

• Certified Master Mixologist, Club Med International

• Certified Advanced Sommelier, Court of the Sommeliers

• Certified Beer Cicerone, Board of Cicerone

• Certified Black Belt Project Handler, Six Sigma

  Mac Gregory's career is a testament to his passion for the hospitality and food & beverage industry, marked by innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Throughout his career, Mac has been recognized for his expertise and his contributions to the industry are well-documented in respected publications such as Wine Spectator, Cheers, Beverage Analyst, and The Tasting Panel, where he has a dedicated column titled “Luxury Libations by Mac.” Mac holds the rights to 17 original beverage recipes and has created several unique liquors, showcasing his creativity and passion for the craft. His contributions to the industry extend beyond management roles as he is also a respected judge in various prestigious competitions, including the San Francisco World Spirit Competition and the International Wine & Spirit Competition. Mac is a sought-after speaker and educator, directing over 350 bespoke signature industry dinners and numerous food and beverage seminars including prestigious events like the DiRoNA Awards and the Telluride Golf and Ski Club’s exclusive Spirit Seminars. His relationships with leading wine producers, master brewers, and distillers have further solidified his standing in the hospitality community. His contributions have significantly shaped the Food and Beverage landscape, establishing effective business models and innovation worldwide. Mac Gregory’s career is decorated with numerous accolades and in addition to his professional roles, Mac is actively involved in industry associations, serving on the VIBE Conference VAC Advisory Council, California Restaurant Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association, AHLA Food & Beverage Council.

  Thomas (Mac) McFarland Gregory III's journey through the hospitality sector make him a leading figure in the business and his extensive knowledge exemplifies his dedication and passion for the industry. From innovative venue concepts and business models to comprehensive hospitality management direction and operational excellence, Mac continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of the industry, inspiring aspiring professionals across the globe.