King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort proudly announces the appointment of George Gomes Jr. as Executive Chef. A native of Hawai'i with more than 37 years of culinary experience, Gomes brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge, leadership and island-rooted perspective to the culturally rich, beachfront resort.
Michael Dunkel has been hired as Director of Finance and Accounting at Kona Beach Resort, bringing over 20 years of expertise in hotel finance and accounting. Most recently, he served as Director of Finance at Warner Center Marriott from 2022 to 2025, where he led budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and financial analysis to support executive decision-making. Previously he was Director of Finance at Evolution Hospitality, managing financial operations for JW Le Merigot Santa Monica, Queen Mary, and Warner Center Marriott from 2014 to 2022. His extensive leadership experience also includes finance roles at Viceroy Santa Monica, Le Meridien Delfina, Airtel Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, and The Kor Group.
Teranishi comes to the resort from Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where she served as branch rental manager for five years. While at the company, she opened a new airport rental branch location; created financial statement action plans; and posted positive operating profit for three, six and 12 months. As well, Teranishi analyzed market trends, rate structures and competitive pricing for the company. She previously worked in the marketing department at Pyramid Insurance Centre, Ltd. in Honolulu.