News from the Big Island: Industry veteran Russell Kembel has been promoted to director of industry relations and national accounts for Hilton Waikoloa Village. This promotion is a strategic move by Hilton Waikoloa Village in order to effectively position the hotel in group markets, while supporting the in-market sales team.
In his new role, Kembel will focus on market development in the United States, Canada and Australia, while acting as a resource for the resort’s in-market sales team. His established relationships in the various market segments and broad knowledge of sales and negotiations will facilitate his efforts to drive revenue to the resort.
Kembel has worked as a senior sales manager for Westin Cincinnati and conference sales manager for O’Hare Hilton. He began his hospitality career fresh out of college in 1996 with the San Francisco Hilton and Towers as a sales trainee. He graduated from Washington State University with a bachelor of arts in business administration-hotel/restaurant management. Kembel currently resides in Seattle.
For more information about Waikoloa Beach Resort and Hilton Waikoloa Village, visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com or www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com.
