The Laylow, Autograph Collection is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Kitashima as its new Director of Sales
and Marketing.
With her local roots and deep ties to the community, Kitashima brings a fresh perspective to The Laylow, an urban oasis perched above the hustle and bustle of Waikiki on Oahu. Frequently named one of the top hotels and resorts in Hawaii, Kitashima will lead strategies designed to take the award-winning guest and event experience to an even higher level.
Kitashima brings over 20 years of hospitality experience to The Laylow. She has held several Director of Sales positions at notable hotels in Hawaii including Highgate Hotels, 1Hotel Hanalei Bay, Residence Inn, Hyatt Waikiki, The MODERN Honolulu and Starwood Hotels and Resorts Waikiki.
Adding to her repertoire of achievements, Kitashima has been awarded several accolades including Pacific Business News’ Pineapple Award Honoree and Hospitality Leadership Recipient from Pacific Edge Magazine.
In her new role, Kitashima will be responsible for developing and strengthening relationships to drive revenue and achieve property-wide goals and implement strategies to develop campaigns, promotions and collateral.
Kitashima is passionate about upholding Hawaiian culture, values and practices. She is the president of Ulu A’e Learning Center, which is dedicated to delivering culture and place-based education for keiki and families through volunteer workdays, community programs and student days. She is also involved in empowering Hawaii’s youth through her role as Vice President of Women Speaking Out.
Kitashima graduated from Kamehameha Schools and attended the School of Travel Industry Management at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She later graduated from University of Nevada, Las Vegas specializing in Hotel Management.
