David Kirken Named General Manager of Arizona Biltmore,
A  Waldorf Astoria Resort

PHOENIX, Ariz. – May 21, 2012  – David Kirken has been appointed general manager for the landmark Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.   He comes to the position with intimate knowledge and insight into the resort’s day-to-day operations, previously having served for three years as the resort manager at La Quinta Resort & Club® and PGA WEST®, a Waldorf Astoria resort property, located in La Quinta, California. As part of his contributions to the resort, he developed strategies and executed processes that continue to improve employee and customer loyalty, maximizing profitability and growing market share for this luxury property.   “David Kirken is uniquely qualified to take the reins of the Arizona Biltmore,” stated Ben Fusco, Hilton Worldwide area vice president of operations Southwest U.S. “His intimate knowledge of luxury properties and his dedication to the staff and guests will ensure the Biltmore continues its reputation as one of the world’s premiere destination resorts.”   He began his career in luxury hospitality in 1997 as the assistant front office manager of The Manele Bay Hotel in Lana’i, Hawaii. Since that time, he has held management positions with luxury hotel and resort brands including Loews Hotels and Ritz-Carlton.   The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort has been an Arizona landmark since opening in 1929, when it was crowned the “Jewel of the Desert.”  The legendary Grand Dame remains one of the most recognized resorts in the world for its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright architectural style, luxurious facilities, and storied history as a playground of the rich and famous.  Nestled on 39 acres at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the legendary resort offers: 740 guest accommodations; full-service Spa, Salon and Fitness Center; two 18-hole golf courses; six restaurants and lounges including Wright’s at The Biltmore, preparing classic dishes updated with today’s culinary perspective, and Frank & Albert's serving Arizona comfort food; eight swimming pools including the Paradise Pool with a 90-foot waterslide and swim-up bar; and seven tennis courts. The Arizona Biltmore is a Waldorf Astoria Resort®.  For more information and reservations call 1-800-950-0086. About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts WALDORF ASTORIA is Hilton Worldwide’s luxury brand of landmark hotels, with each one as singular and timeless as the brand’s namesake, The Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York. From classic elegance to modern grandeur, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts each represent worldly sophistication and unparalleled guest service. From sumptuous spas and culinary excellence to world-class golf, each hotel & resort offers the exquisite accommodations and signature accoutrements that define refinement and sophistication. Discover Waldorf Astoria by visiting www.waldorfastoria.com. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is one of Hilton Worldwide’s ten market-leading brands.   About Hilton Worldwide Hilton Worldwide is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For 93 years, Hilton Worldwide has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. The company is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Its brands are comprised of more than 3,800 hotels and timeshare properties, with 630,000 rooms in 88 countries and include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages the world-class guest reward program Hilton HHonors®. Visit www.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide at www.facebook.com/hiltonworldwide, www.twitter.com/hiltonworldwide, www.youtube.com/hiltonworldwide, www.flickr.com/hiltonworldwide and www.linkedin.com/company/hilton-worldwide.