Adding to its talented team of sales professionals, Island Hotel Newport Beach, a luxury coastal hotel in the heart of Orange County’s elite Newport Center, has named seasoned hotel executive Ron Sandvig as director of travel sales.
In his new position, Sandvig will leverage his extensive industry connections, concentrating on working with the hotel’s top travel partners, including Virtuoso, Signature and American Express, while continuing to build lasting client relationships to bolster market share and drive revenue streams.
With more than 30 years of luxury hospitality sales experience, Sandvig was most recently vice president of travel industry sales for the 582-room oceanfront Terranea Resort, where he forged and cultivated strategic alliances with a series of high profile clients and affiliates.
According to Gerard Widder, general manager for the newly transformed 292-room Island Hotel owned and operated by Irvine Company, he will continue in a similar capacity in his new role.
“Ron has extensive leadership expertise in the hospitality sales arena and is an invaluable addition to our sales team,” said Widder. “Island Hotel has recently emerged from a comprehensive transformation, with a modern new look, updated technological conveniences and services, customized amenities and fresh culinary offerings. Ron’s dedication, talent and vision – as well as strong relationships and industry connections – will be crucial as we continue to elevate Island Hotel’s position as the region’s top destination for both business and leisure travelers.”
Sandvig said he looks forward to taking the acclaimed hotel to even higher levels of excellence. “Island Hotel continues to raise the bar for luxury, service and amenities in Southern California,” he said. “I am thrilled to join this very talented team to spread the word and further strengthen its market position.”
With considerable industry credentials, Sandvig is well equipped for the task. His background includes 10 years as regional director of sales for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, four years as director of sales and marketing for The Westin Long Beach and two years as director of national sales for Doubletree by Hilton.
A resident of Long Beach, he holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Hawaii.
