PRESS KIT
General Manager's Biography
With more than 30 years of experience in hospitality and tourism, Poynder is the first woman to lead the legendary Upper East Side hotel. In 2021, The Carlyle completed a three-year thoughtful transformation, featuring new guest rooms and suites as well as the debut of the hotel’s signature restaurant, Dowling’s at The Carlyle. Poynder oversees all aspects of the property, including the famed Bemelmans Bar and the celebrated Café Carlyle.
“The Carlyle has been an iconic New York institution for over 90 years, and I am honoured to be the managing director of this renowned hotel,” said Poynder. “I particularly enjoy collaborating with the talented team and leading The Carlyle into the future, while also maintaining our commitment to the hotel’s traditions and loyal guests,” added Poynder.
A native of Australia, most recently Poynder held the position of general manager at the Conrad New York Downtown. In 2015, she moved to the U.S. to become general manager of the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago. Before joining Hilton, Poynder held a variety of executive roles with Hyatt Hotels in Asia and Australia, overseeing hotel openings of luxury properties. With Hilton, she managed openings and presided over renovations and attributes her success to the teams she has built and developed to achieve common goals.
Poynder is involved in New York City’s official tourism organization, New York City Tourism, and serves on their Executive Committee and is co-chair of the Hotel Committee.
