Hilton Strengthens Hawaii Luxury Tourism with Jon Gersonde’s Appointment at Grand Wailea Maui Resort

Written By: Pappu Mazumder

Pappu Mazumder

I bring a journalist’s perspective to the travel and tourism industry, contributing to Travel and Tour World through engaging storytelling, industry insights, and creative ideas. I focus on exploring emerging trends, highlighting key developments, and sharing meaningful stories that connect the global travel community while inspiring curiosity, innovation, and discovery.

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August 25, 2026 12:31 AM

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Hilton has appointed Jon Gersonde the new managing director of Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Gersonde’s appointment signals the first major leadership change at one of Hawaii’s premier luxury hospitality destinations.

With nearly three decades of experience across some of Hawaii’s most prestigious resorts, Gersonde will take charge of the resort’s overall operations, focusing on enhancing commercial performance, strengthening team development, advancing sustainability initiatives, and delivering world-class guest experiences that reflect Hilton’s global luxury standards.

The appointment comes as Grand Wailea continues to build on its reputation as a landmark destination that combines luxury accommodation, Hawaiian heritage, wellness experiences, and environmental responsibility. Gersonde’s extensive background in managing high-profile island resorts positions him to guide the property into its next phase of growth while preserving its unique connection to Maui’s culture and community.

Experienced Hospitality Leader Brings Decades of Luxury Resort Expertise to Maui

Gersonde joins Grand Wailea after an accomplished career leading some of Hawaii’s most celebrated hospitality properties. His most recent role was as general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, where he managed operations at one of Maui’s premier luxury resorts and strengthened its position within the competitive high-end travel market.

Before that, he served as vice president and managing director of Turtle Bay Resort on Oʻahu, where he oversaw strategic operations and guest experience initiatives at the iconic North Shore property.

Throughout his career, Gersonde has held senior leadership positions at several renowned Hawaiian resorts, including executive roles at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, The Royal Hawaiian, Kapalua Bay Hotel, and The Westin Maui.

His professional journey has been defined by operational excellence, luxury hospitality expertise, and a deep understanding of Hawaii’s unique tourism landscape. His leadership experience spans resort transformation, team development, sustainability practices, and creating memorable experiences for travellers from around the world.

Grand Wailea Maui Begins New Chapter Under Strategic Leadership

As managing director, Gersonde will oversee all areas of Grand Wailea’s operations while supporting the resort’s long-term vision of delivering exceptional hospitality rooted in Hawaiian values.

The luxury resort features 795 guest rooms, including 58 suites, along with 50 private villas at Hoʻolei. It is also home to Kilolani Spa & Salon, one of the island’s leading wellness destinations, and a diverse collection of dining experiences.

The resort’s culinary portfolio includes several signature venues, such as Nobu, the island’s first location of the globally recognised restaurant brand, the seafood and steakhouse destination Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, Italian-inspired Olivine, and Botero Lounge, located at the heart of the property.

Under Gersonde’s leadership, Grand Wailea aims to continue elevating its service standards while creating a workplace culture focused on teamwork, innovation, respect, and the spirit of aloha.

Sustainability and Hawaiian Culture Remain at the Heart of Resort Vision

Gersonde’s appointment reflects Grand Wailea’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism and preserving the cultural identity of Hawaii. Throughout his career, he has focused on advancing sustainable hospitality practices, strengthening community relationships, and protecting the traditions that make the Hawaiian Islands a unique global destination.

His leadership approach aligns with the growing demand among luxury travellers for meaningful experiences that go beyond traditional accommodation. Modern visitors increasingly seek destinations that respect local culture, support communities, and protect natural environments.

Grand Wailea continues to position itself as more than a luxury resort by creating experiences that connect guests with Maui’s landscapes, heritage, wellness traditions, and island lifestyle.

With Gersonde at the helm, the resort is expected to further strengthen its role as one of Hawaii’s leading luxury destinations while continuing to balance premium hospitality with environmental and cultural responsibility.

Leadership Transition Strengthens Grand Wailea’s Future Growth Strategy

The appointment of Gersonde represents a strategic step for Grand Wailea as the resort prepares for future growth in an increasingly competitive global luxury travel market.

His combination of operational knowledge, island expertise, and experience managing iconic Hawaiian properties provides a strong foundation for the resort’s continued evolution.

Grand Wailea’s leadership vision focuses on maintaining its legendary reputation while adapting to changing traveller expectations. From luxury accommodation and exceptional dining to wellness, sustainability, and cultural experiences, the resort aims to deliver a complete Hawaiian escape for international visitors.

With a proven track record of managing world-class resorts and developing high-performing teams, Gersonde brings extensive expertise to one of Maui’s most important hospitality landmarks.

His arrival marks a new era for Grand Wailea Maui, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to excellence while honouring the heritage, natural beauty, and community values that define Hawaii’s luxury tourism experience.