Our Team

Kyle Davis is a seasoned hospitality professional who believes that attention to detail and a willingness to go the extra mile are key to creating exceptional guest experiences. He takes a hands-on approach as General Manager of The Pearl Hotel, leading with empathy, respect, and a strong commitment to both guests and team members. Kyle joined The St. Joe Company in 2014 after graduating from the Rosen College of Hospitality Management and advancing to a senior role at a Five Star/Five Diamond resort. His leadership and guest-focused philosophy have led him to roles at Watersound Inn and Watersound Beach Club before assuming his current position. In his role, Kyle is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence while delivering memorable guest experiences.

Esther Spears brings nearly two decades of hospitality experience and a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. Prior to joining The Pearl Hotel, she served as Director of Lodging & Guest Services at WaterColor Inn & Resort, where she focused on guest satisfaction, operational excellence, and team development. Her career also includes leadership roles with Panama City Resort & Club, Choice Hotels, Marriott International in Jackson, Mississippi, and Serena Hotels in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Esther studied Business Administration at Gulf Coast State College and Hotel Management at the Dynamic Institute of Management and Accounting in Kenya. In her role as Assistant General Manager, she is committed to optimizing operations and inspiring her team to exceed expectations.

With over two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, Ashley Ellis has built a dynamic career spanning restaurants, resorts, and casinos nationwide. A native of Frankfort, Kentucky, his career took shape in the luxury resorts of Las Vegas, where his passion for elevated dining and entertainment experiences developed. Throughout his career, Ashley has led the successful launch of more than 30 establishments, including restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in cities such as San Antonio, Biloxi, Boise, Dallas, Lexington, and Phoenix. Now calling the Florida Panhandle home, Ashley serves as Director of Food and Beverage at The Pearl Hotel, where he oversees all dining operations, including Havana Beach Bar & Grill, the rooftop and lounge, in-room dining, and banquet services, ensuring exceptional guest experiences across all outlets.

Chef Jordan’s culinary journey started at the age of 13, inspired by growing up in New Orleans and its rich, globally influenced food culture. Throughout his career, he has trained extensively across a wide range of cuisines, including Korean, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Japanese, Indian, African, and Mediterranean. He has built much of his career in Houston, establishing himself as a leader in the city’s dynamic culinary scene while also holding executive roles in other major markets. Chef Jordan brings a creative and globally inspired approach to each concept and has made multiple appearances on the Food Network. He has also worked as a consultant for restaurant concepts across the country, developing menus and training culinary teams. Now serving as Executive Chef at The Pearl Hotel, Chef Jordan is dedicated to delivering diverse, high-quality dining experiences while fostering creativity and growth within his team.

Ana Keough brings extensive hospitality experience to her role as Director of Restaurants at The Pearl Hotel. She previously served as Bar Manager at Watersound Beach Club for four years and has held General Manager positions with several notable businesses along 30A. Ana attended the University of Memphis before relocating to the coast to pursue her passion for hospitality. Known for her strengths in team building and communication, she is committed to developing servant-hearted leaders within her team. In her role, Ana is dedicated to delivering exceptional guest service and creating memorable dining experiences for every guest.