Jon Gersonde has been appointed as Managing Director at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

A respected luxury hospitality leader with more than 28 years of experience, Gersonde will lead the hotel with strategic oversight of all departments, with a goal of optimizing financial & commercial performance, developing high-performing teams, championing the resort's commitment to Hawaiian culture and sustainability, and ensuring an exceptional guest experience aligned with Hilton’s standard of excellence.

Most recently, Gersonde served as the General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua where he led one of the island’s premier resorts. Prior to that, he held the role of Vice President & Managing Director at Turtle Bay Resort on Oʻahu. His distinguished career also includes executive leadership positions as Vice President of Operations, Managing Director, and General Manager at renowned properties including 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, The Royal Hawaiian, Kapalua Bay Hotel, and The Westin Maui.

Gersonde has built a reputation for operational excellence, cultivating high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. He is deeply connected to Hawaiʻi and is passionate about advancing sustainability, regenerative tourism, community engagement, and preserving the rich culture and traditions that make the islands so unique.

Jon Gersonde is an alumnus of The School of Hospitality Business at Michigan State University .