NEW YORK, NEW YORK (February 26, 2018) — Highgate, a premier real estate investment and hospitality management company, has appointed Kelly Sanders as Vice President of Operations, Hawaii. In this role, Sanders will oversee the management of Highgate’s expanding portfolio of properties in Hawaii — currently comprised of six assets in Honolulu, including the newly-launched ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach.
“We are excited to have Kelly join the Highgate team. His background, achievements in hospitality and passion for guest experience will further the success of our Hawaii portfolio,” said Steve Barick, Chief Operating Officer of Highgate.
Sanders joins Highgate after more than 21 years within the Starwood/Marriott global brand. Most recently, he was Area General Manager overseeing five legacy properties in Hawaii, including the oceanfront Sheraton Waikiki, The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, The Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort and Spa, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani and the Sheraton Maui.
“I am thrilled to join Highgate and be a part of its robust expansion plans in Hawaii,” said Sanders. “I am confident we will continue to create unparalleled experiences that support the culture and vitality of Hawaii and also sustain the communities and ohana who call Hawaii home.”
An accomplished industry expert, Sanders was recently appointed a board member of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) by Governor of Hawaii David Ige.
In addition to his extensive background in the hospitality industry, Sanders is active in numerous philanthropic endeavors. He has served as Chair of the Diamond Head Theater, and is a board member of Gregory House Charities, Euro Cinema, Boy Scouts of America and The American Red Cross. He is also the Creative Entertainment Director for the Heart Ball benefiting the American Heart Association of Hawaii.
