Navigating Growth, Culture, and Connection: A Conversation with Westgate’s Jared Saft
To say Jared was high energy is a vast understatement. My recent interview with Jared Saft, Chief Business & Strategy Officer of Westgate Resorts and Chair-Elect of ARDA, left me energized, inspired, and, yes, a little bit winded!
With a broad and dynamic portfolio—one that spans marketing, hotel sales, owner services, and even oversight of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino–that energy must come into play every day.
During our recent Resort Trades Learning Center interview with him, Saft offered insights into how his company is navigating an evolving hospitality landscape while staying rooted in people-first values.
With Westgate known as one of the largest privately held timeshare developers in the world, Saft’s leadership touches virtually every corner of the organization. In our conversation, we explored themes ranging from employee engagement and community partnerships to digital innovation and long-term growth strategy.
Leading Through Talent Development
Though his role in human resources is relatively new, Saft sees it as foundational. “Having a role in HR from a business standpoint was new to me,” he shared. “But getting to know our trainers and how different departments interact has been invaluable. It’s allowed me to apply knowledge from years in operations to think about how the business looks from the inside out.”
Westgate has launched several internal initiatives to build a culture of inclusivity and opportunity. From the World of Westgate loyalty program to Westgate University, the company strives to give every team member—from hourly employees to executives—a stake in its success. “We want our people to feel like they’re not just employees,” Saft said. “They’re part of something bigger.”
Aligning Culture with Strategy
When I asked how the company aligns business strategy with culture, Saft emphasized the value of listening. “So often we assume we already know the answer,” he said. “But when we’re in the field, speaking with our sales teams and service staff, we start uncovering what’s really needed. People feel more invested when they’re part of the solution.”
This philosophy extends into external relationships as well. Whether it’s a guest, a team member, or a corporate partner, Westgate prioritizes tailored engagement. “No partnership is cookie-cutter,” Saft explained. “We sit down, listen to where the other party is in their life cycle, and figure out how we can create shared value.”
Strategic Collaborations: From Chuck E. Cheese to Choice Hotels
I noted this collaborative approach to forming partnerships must have been a notable part of Westgate’s growth strategy. This includes innovating creative partnerships that transcend traditional hospitality boundaries. Saft discussed the company’s recent collaboration with Chuck E. Cheese, debuting in a new arcade attraction designed for family fun. “They’re the preeminent brand in that space,” he said. “This partnership allows us to bring new experiences to our resort guests while offering Chuck E. Cheese access to our 360,000 owners.”
Similarly, Westgate’s partnership with Choice Hotels—via the Ascend Collection—has opened the door to a broader travel audience. “We’re the largest unbranded timeshare company in the U.S.,” Saft noted. “Choice gives us visibility and access to a wider network of travelers, and in turn, we introduce their guests to our vacation experiences.”
Consistency Across a Diverse Portfolio
Westgate’s wide range of properties and offerings—casinos, hotels, arcades, restaurants, and now even water parks—is a testimony to Saft and his team’s progressive and visionary trailblazing. Westgate’s creation of “glamping” comes to mind. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in Central Florida offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience, where guests enjoy the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and luxury accommodations in a scenic, country-themed setting.
I asked how Westgate maintains brand consistency across all these various systems? According to Saft, it’s all about alignment. “We match the right partnerships and experiences to each property,” he said. “Take our relationship with Barry Manilow, for example. He’s our headliner in Las Vegas and has become a tremendous ambassador for the brand there.”
Meanwhile, in other markets, family-oriented attractions or outdoor amenities take precedence. What stays consistent is the goal: delivering meaningful, memorable guest experiences.
Investing in the Future—Including the Next Generation
As Westgate continues to expand—with projects like the soon-to-open Mystery Fun House Arcade Experience—Saft remains focused on the long game. “Being private allows us to be many things at once,” he said. “Entertainment, family experiences, hospitality—it’s about aligning the right product with the right audience.”
But strategy isn’t limited to infrastructure. As Chair-Elect of ARDA, Saft is also invested in working with ARDA in shaping the industry’s future leadership. “I’m passionate about developing the next generation of professionals,” he said. “This industry is only as healthy as the people we’re bringing up through it.”
As for advice to new entrants into the timeshare industry? He encouraged young professionals not to pigeonhole themselves. “Don’t just come up through one department,” he advised. “Spend time in sales, marketing, operations—get a holistic view. You’ll be better equipped to lead when you understand the full picture.”
A Bright Horizon for Vacation Ownership
Despite industry headwinds—regulatory scrutiny, generational shifts, and evolving traveler expectations—Saft remains optimistic. He believes the timeshare model is uniquely suited to deliver meaningful vacations and financial value. But it must continue evolving.
“We’re all consumers,” he said. “The better we understand today’s guest—from digital expectations to family needs—the more we can shape the future of this industry in a sustainable, consumer-focused way.”
His advice to leaders? “Ask more questions. Listen deeply. And never stop learning from your team.”
Sharon Scott Wilson is the lead creator and curator for Resort Trades Media Group (ResortTrades.com). Visit ResortTrades.com/eMagazine to subscribe to The Free Weekly Resort Insider.
