When choosing a primary airline, schedule frequency counts a lot. AA would be my top choice ex-CLT as it's a hub. Poor customer service is a minus, thought it will become less poor once you achieve status. Though consider if your frequent destinations largely align with some other carrier's hubs.

For hotels, I don't see why Marriott is a slam-dunk over Hilton. In general the two are close to equal. Perhaps consider if you have frequent destinations which portfolio offers better choices at those destinations.

For "basic rooms" at hotels definitely also consider IHG. The Holiday Inn Express brand is very consistent and is fine as a basic accommodations for business travel. HIX properties are also found in smaller towns than you'll see the likes of a Courtyard or Hampton Inn. That's useful when traveling for leisure-- or for business, if your business takes you to smaller towns. The Chase IHG premier card is available with a whopping 175k signup bonus right now.