NEWS RELEASE
February 07, 2024
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort is delighted to share the appointment of Hillary Francis to the key position of Director of Sales and Marketing. In her new role, Hillary will play a pivotal part in enhancing the property's commercial success by leading and implementing innovative sales and marketing strategies across the resort's expansive offerings. Opened on July 1, 2023, Kona Village spans 81 acres of breathtaking geological landscape and is the latest iteration of the iconic island retreat. Rooted in the rich history of the land, local culture, and natural surroundings, the resort is committed to delivering a distinctive and luxurious Hawaiian experience.
| “With Hillary’s proven track record of driving commercial growth and unique experience working on property transformations, she is an excellent addition to Kona Village’s ‘ohana,” said Daniel Scott, Managing Director of Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort. “She brings an extensive knowledge of Hawaiian hospitality and a respect for the Aloha spirit, and we are confident that both will be key in continuing the groundswell of momentum Kona Village has built in the past year.” |
The addition of Hillary Francis to the resort’s dedicated team will be instrumental in steering Kona Village’s continued growth and success. A resident of Hawai’i for the last fourteen years, Hillary brings with her an intimate knowledge of the destination and a profound respect for the islands’ culture and natural beauty. Her most recent role saw her as Complex Director of Marketing for Waldorf Astoria where she led the comprehensive reintroduction of the Grand Wailea resort following a three-year renovation. Her experience includes high-level marketing roles at Four Seasons Resort Maui and Destination by Hyatt. Her ability to drive results is not confined to numbers but extends to her unique talent for creating and executing strategies that speak to larger visions and goals. In the past her efforts have effectively reshaped patterns in key performance indicators, setting new records within the organizations she has worked for. With her wealth of experience and expertise, Hillary is poised to contribute significantly to the strategic development of Kona Village, ensuring its position as one of the world’s premier destinations and continuing its legacy of thoughtful tourism.
With breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and immersive elements rooted in the destination, Kona Village’s return to the Big Island has brought a new generation of exceptional stays and lifestyle experiences. The resort has seen immense success since its reopening, including being the first hotel in Hawai’i to achieve LEED Gold status.
About Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, is an iconic hideaway rooted in Hawaiian legacy, where the rhythm mirrors the slow, rolling waves along the secluded Kahuwai Bay. Immersed in the moʻolelo (stories) of the Native Hawaiians who came before, this ancient fishing village upholds their long-etched values, carrying a deep commitment to ʻohana (family) with profound Hawaiian hoʻokipa (hospitality of complete giving). Spanning 81 acres of stunning geologic landscape on the Kona Coast, this reimagined classic channels inspiration from the land’s storied history, local sensibilities, and natural elements to illuminate the ancient Kaʻūpūlehu’s past, present, and future. Every element of the property has been carefully curated to celebrate the quintessential elements of the original Kona Village Resort that made it so beloved and to demonstrate a profound connection to and appreciation of the habitat and heritage of its one-of-a-kind location. Spearheaded by Hawaiʻi-raised architect, Greg Warner of Walker Warner Architects, and designed by San Francisco-based interior design firm, NICOLEHOLLIS, these offerings include 150 traditional guest hale; five restaurants and bars, including the original resort’s beloved Shipwreck and Talk Story bars; and Asaya Spa, Rosewood’s integrative wellness concept designed to support mind, body, and soul. A commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the property. The resort is powered 100% by solar energy, and several buildings have been designed for LEED Gold Certification, while an on-site cultural center further provides both visitors and locals with perspective into the rich natural and cultural significance of the surroundings.
About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages a global collection of 31 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 18 countries. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand’s A Sense of Place® philosophy to reflect the individual location’s history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world’s most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong and Rosewood São Paulo. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offer a distinct opportunity for the ownership or rental of properties co-located with a Rosewood hotel or resort and of standalone for-sale residences. Rosewood Residences are defined by the brand’s commitment to Enriched Living through thoughtful details and experiences that enhance the quality of life while evoking a sense of discovery and inspiration.
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