PRESS KIT
Martein van Wagenberg arrived at Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth as Managing Director in August 2013, when it was known as Le Guanahani, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, and continues in his role now under the Rosewood umbrella. Van Wagenberg draws on more than a quarter century of experience in luxury hospitality, with particular expertise in the Caribbean, including at The Grace Bay club in Turks and Caicos. He had previously spent nine years at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, managing Rosewood Little Dix Bay in Virgin Gorda, BVI, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso in Los Cabos, Mexico. Under his direction, Rosewood Little Dix Bay was named the #1 Caribbean Destination by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report and Las Ventanas al Paraiso earned the AAA Five-Diamond Award for 12 consecutive years. Van Wagenberg also oversaw comprehensive enhancements at both resorts, while also increasing occupancy, profitability, and guest satisfaction.
Following his initial arrival at Le Guanahani, Van Wagenberg successfully guided a multi-million-dollar enhancement program, working closely with a team of top creative consultants to evolve and recast the storied property into a modern and glamorous five-star destination. Under Van Wagenberg’s inspired leadership, the renovated resort debuted in 2015 with re-imagined accommodations and public spaces, as well as new programming focused on wellness and sustainability.
From the fall of 2017 to the fall 2021, he oversaw the extensive construction and renovation that has now transformed the property into its rebranding as Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth.
He continues to place staff development at the top of his priorities, believing it is fundamental to the property’s success. He has also reaffirmed the property’s commitment to sustainability through the development of unique programs and has received certification from Green Globe, which recognizes companies and organizations committed to making positive contributions to people and the planet.
When not on duty, Martein loves a morning swim in the ocean in front of the resort, often joined by guests, and to hike the multiple trails of the island.
Throughout his residency in the Caribbean, Van Wagenberg has been driven by his personal passion for the destination to take an active role in community and industry organizations, including membership in the Caribbean Hotel Association, the local Hotel Associations and Tourist Boards. Along the way, he has become an expert on hospitality in the Caribbean, becoming a go-to source for
travel media, resulting in his inclusion on various industry panels hosted by Travel + Leisure and Caribbean Life among others and nomination as hotelier of the year by Virtuoso.
Van Wagenberg was educated at the Hotel Management School in Maastricht, Netherlands and the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. He is highly regarded for his visionary philosophy to create and promote elegant boutique accommodation with a minimalist and environmentally sensitive approach, combining intimacy and style with unparalleled service.
