Craig Backhus

Craig Backhus is a design development and construction management professional with over 35 years of experience in the industry, specializing in hospitality projects globally. As a nationally accredited licensed Architect, they have successfully led major projects across North and South America, Asia, and Europe, ensuring quality and cost control throughout the development process. Craig has held significant positions, including Managing Principal at Backhus Program Management and Corporate Vice President at Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, directing projects with budgets exceeding $2.5 billion. Currently, they serve as Managing Principal at Acumen Development Partners, focusing on upscale and mid-scale hospitality projects. Craig's extensive background also includes founding the Blackline Group and obtaining degrees in Architecture from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and further education in finance from The University of Chicago.