Hospitality Veteran Frederick Sawyers Appointed As Managing Director For Bonnet Creek Properties In Orlando

Hilton announced today the appointment of hotel industry veteran Frederick Sawyers as the managing director for Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando. In this role, Sawyers will oversee the management of daily hotel operations, development and execution of strategic sales and marketing initiatives, and financial planning and analysis for the Bonnet Creek resort complex.  The 1,500 room complex features 175,000 square feet of meeting and event space, 12 distinct dining outlets, a nationally-acclaimed golf course, and the world-class Waldorf Astoria Spa.

“We’re elated to welcome Fred as he rejoins the Hilton family to lead our team at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando,” said Doug Gehret, Area Vice President of Operations, Hilton. “He brings unparalleled expertise in the management of multi-property complexes, which is an invaluable asset in continuing to elevate the success of our properties in all aspects – from internal operations to guest experience.”

Sawyers’ stellar 35-year career boasts multiple leadership roles marked by exceptional inspiration and notable accomplishments. Most recently, Sawyers served as complex general manager for Walt Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin, overseeing the multimillion-dollar operation for its two properties, including 18 restaurants and lounges and its more than 320,000 square foot meeting facility.

This new role marks Sawyer’s return to Hilton, where his 20-year tenure included serving as a complex general manager for Hilton New Orleans Riverside and Doubletree by Hilton New Orleans, overseeing all aspects of the nearly 2,000-room operation. Sawyers’ leadership experience also includes roles as hotel manager for Hilton New Orleans Airport and the Four-Diamond Hilton Portland & Executive Tower in Oregon.

Sawyers has been a member of the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association since 2014, serving as part of the executive board.

About Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando:

Located within the 482-acre Bonnet Creek nature preserve and surrounded by Walt Disney World^® Resort, the Bonnet Creek resort complex comprises two award-winning resorts: Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando.  Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is a vibrant, family-centric resort featuring 1,009 newly renovated guest rooms and suites.  The adjacent Waldorf Astoria, boasting 502 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, provides award-winning service and amenities to guests from around the world. The first Waldorf Astoria to be built outside of New York City, the property redefines modern luxury in Orlando.  Combined, the Bonnet Creek complex resort features 12 distinctive dining options including the renowned Bull & Bear and La Luce, and an array of leisure amenities and experiences including a three-acre lazy river pool with water slide, private poolside cabanas, WA Kids Club, nationally-acclaimed Rees Jones-designed golf course, and the world-class Waldorf Astoria Spa.  In addition, the complex features an expansive 185,000 square feet of meeting and event space. As Official Walt Disney World® Hotels, guests have access to special Disney perks, including Disney’s FastPass+ service, with access 60-days in advance of arrival and Disney’s Extra Magic Hours benefit.

About Hilton:

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising nearly 6,000 properties with more than 954,000 rooms, in 117 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its mission to be the world’s most hospitable company, Hilton earned a spot on the 2019 World’s Best Workplaces list, and has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its 100-year history. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, more than 100 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy, plus enjoy instant benefits, including digital check-in with room selection, Digital Key, and Connected Room. Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.