Hilton Grand Vacations Completes Phase II Construction, Appoints GMs to Hawaii Island Resorts
Hilton Grand Vacations Inc. (NYSE:HGV) (“HGV” or the “Company”) has completed major construction and renovation projects and appointed two new general managers at its resorts on Hawaii Island.
Construction of Phase II at Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations has been completed, adding 90 more converted timeshare units to the oceanside resort for a new total of 162 studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom options – most with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring Beach Golf Course. Upon full completion, this multiphase project will encompass approximately 350 units, with continued renovations providing an enhanced guest experience both within the comfort of the units and in exterior entryways, common areas, and lanais.
Renovations were recently completed on the first phase of Kings’ Land by Hilton Grand Vacations, one of four HGV properties within the Waikoloa Beach Resort. Highlights of the refurbishments include all new furniture and kitchen appliances along with a new color palette, flooring, lighted bathroom mirrors, a new dining area chandelier, window treatments and state-of-the-art electronics.
“Both Ocean Tower and Kings’ Land are leading destinations for guests from around the world, and the updates we are making further the value that we are able to offer to owners and guests,” said Rob Gunthner, area vice president, resort operations. “The continued expansion and improvements to these resorts reflect our long-term commitment to Hawaii, and to providing a lifetime of vacations memories for our owners as well as first-class resorts supported by our incredible team members who are the true foundation to our overall success.”
HGV has also promoted two of its team members to general manager positions at both resorts. Robert Ishihara has been promoted to general manager at Kings’ Land, a role in which he will also oversee nearby resorts Kohala Suites and The Bay Club. During Ishihara’s previous tenure as general manager of Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations, the resort received numerous accolades including Outrigger’s Hospitality Award (2018), Hawaii Green Business Recognition (2018, 2020), and HGV’s coveted Connie Award (2017).
Wilbert W.S. Lee Jr. has been promoted to general manager at Ocean Tower. Lee joined HGV in 2008 as resort manager at Kings’ Land and has been involved in the Ocean Tower project since the opening of the resort’s first phase in October 2018. Lee oversaw pre-opening requirements, built the team to manage the resort’s day-to-day operations, and developed strong relationships with the team at Hilton Waikoloa Village to ensure a seamless experience for owners and guests.
Under Ishihara and Lee’s leadership, the resorts have hosted two recent CSR events that support the Hawaii community. Thanks to participation from over 350 HGV team members, more than $15,000 was raised for the 2021 Annual HLTA Charity Walk to benefit noteworthy non-profit organizations. Team members also continue to participate in efforts such as highway clean-ups, most recently in partnership with Waikoloa Land Company, maintaining a portion of the highway fronting the Waikoloa Beach Resort.
“HGV is very proud to have both Robert and Wilbert at the helm of two of Hawaii’s leading resorts,” said Rob Gunthner. “Both of these general managers bring more than 25 years of knowledge and experience in Hawaii’s hospitality industry, making them valuable leaders that understand the importance of malama as we grow in Hawaii.”
Currently, HGV’s Waikoloa resorts are seeking to fill additional roles in their operations, sales, and marketing departments. HGV has been recognized numerous times as a top employer and community supporter and invites interested applicants to explore available positions at https://careers.hgv.com.
