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HSMAI honored the 2023 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality Sales, Marketing, Revenue Optimization and Distribution — recognizing leaders from hospitality, travel, and tourism organizations for their accomplishments. Vanessa Williams, General Manager, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Marriott Autograph Collection, is one of these honorees.
From South Korea to Beverly Hills, Vanessa Williams has traveled the globe, restoring and renovating luxury hotels. She has held the position of General Manager of The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club since early 2022. Given her immense experience in luxury hotel leadership and specialty in leading marketing campaigns, she was chosen to oversee the overall operations of the refined resort as it emerged from an extensive renovation.
Vanessa’s hospitality career has spanned nearly three decades, including a role in the renovation, relaunch and repositioning of the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong along with time at Raffles L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Sandy Lane Barbados and Sukhothai Bangkok before joining Hilton to spearhead luxury expansion initiatives, including opening Waldorf Astoria Beijing and Conrad Seoul.
Directly before her time at The Vinoy, Vanessa was general manager of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, where she led her team to outperform luxury benchmarks, such as upholding the Forbes 5-Star rating for both the hotel and the spa
Key Accomplishment:
Led the renovation of The Vinoy Resort, enhancing its luxury offerings.
What Inspired This Nomination?
“Vanessa’s leadership has redefined luxury hospitality at The Vinoy Resort.”
Q&A with Vanessa Williams
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be prepared for career challenges, especially in environments that might not readily accept a strong, determined woman with high expectations. Build resilience, know the landscape you’re entering, and set realistic expectations. Keep learning and growing, staying true to your ambitions despite any obstacles you encounter.
What keeps you inspired?
Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply inspired by witnessing the growth and development of individuals that I have had the honor to lead, across diverse cultures spanning ten countries. Witnessing them grow and thrive, evolving into accomplished leaders and remarkable individuals within the realm of hospitality, has been my driving force. My passion lies in both nurturing these individuals and contributing to the luxury hospitality industry that resonates with me.
Nominations are now open for the 2024 HSMAI Top 25! Deadline is September 20.