Tucson, AZ – (April 2016) – JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa, Tucson's premier destination resort has appointed Daniel Perez to the dual role of Executive Chef/Food and Beverage Director for the 575-room luxury property. General Manager Russ Bond made the announcement.

"Danny has played an integral role in the success of the culinary program at Starr Pass," said Mr. Bond. "In the 12 years he's been with the resort, he has consistently exemplified outstanding leadership and management skills in every position he has held. His vast industry knowledge and culinary expertise are instrumental to the company and I'm thrilled to see him thrive as he assumes this new position."

Perez joined the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa in 2004 as Chef de Cuisine for the property's Signature Grill restaurant. In 2006, he assumed the role of Banquet Chef overseeing and managing the daily operations of the resort's catering kitchen. In 2009, Perez was promoted to Executive Sous Chef, managing food preparation, quality control, sanitation and daily operations of six outlet kitchens. In 2011, he was promoted to Executive Chef, a position he set his sights on when he joined the company 12 years ago. In June of 2015, Perez earned the title of Iron Chef Tucson, a title he still holds today.

Perez graduated from the Scottsdale Culinary Art School in 2001 with an associate degree in culinary arts and immediately landed with Stuart Anderson's Black Angus in Tucson as a Sous Chef and Executive Chef before launching his career with the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa.

Perez resides in Tucson with his family.