Westgate Resorts has made a series of leadership appointments and executive promotions as part of a broader plan to position the company for future growth.
"This year will be a year marked by growth and strategic investments," Westgate Resorts CEO Jim Gissy said in a statement. "We're excited to introduce these new leaders who will enable our business to scale and deliver the best possible experience for our owners and guests. These same individuals will also mentor the next generation of leaders within our organization."
Mitch Less has been appointed chief operating officer of Westgate Resorts. Less will oversee resort operations, food and beverage, IT, risk management and several other critical areas, working directly with company leadership. He brings more than 35 years of industry experience, having worked as a partner at Grant Thornton, where he specialized in the hospitality and real estate sectors. Less has worked with brands like Ritz-Carlton, Marriott and Hilton, as well as with large family-owned businesses such as Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits.
John Willman, a 30-year veteran of Westgate, has been promoted to chief financial officer. Since joining the company in 1994, Willman has played a crucial role in transforming Westgate's finance operations, including overseeing its financial reporting and loan portfolio. In his new role, Willman will continue to lead mortgage operations, accounts services and financial planning and analysis, focusing on building a finance function to support the company's expansion plans.
Jared Saft, an 18-year veteran of Westgate, has been promoted to chief business and strategy officer and will continue to lead marketing, hotel sales, product development and owner services, while also overseeing the company's long-term growth strategy. In addition, he will also oversee Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and human resources. Saft played a key role in the launch of Westgate's loyalty program, World of Westgate, and has led several important initiatives, including the company's partnership with Choice Hotels and the development of Westgate University.
Dana Wadsworth, a 29-year veteran of Westgate, is being promoted to chief of staff, while also retaining her role as senior vice president of VOA, Westgate's timeshare trial program. Wadsworth joined Westgate in 1995 and has progressively taken on more leadership responsibilities, most recently leading the VOA department to record sales growth.
Garrett Stump, a 24-year veteran of Westgate, has been promoted to senior vice president of owner services and inventory management. Stump will focus on enhancing customer service and expanding Westgate's timeshare offerings
Chad Severance will oversee Westgate's development and design team. Severance brings over 25 years of experience in construction and development, with a background working at Disney, Universal Creative and Elite International.
Alex Velazquez has been promoted to senior vice president of digital marketing and creative services. In recent years, Velazquez has built a digital marketing team, and his new role will focus on further integrating Westgate's marketing and consumer engagement strategies.
Heather Tritchel and Sam King have been promoted to senior vice presidents of specialty marketing. Both have long tenures at Westgate, with Tritchel having held key roles in marketing growth and King having led projects in the company's specialty marketing and IT departments.
David Alexander Siegel and Daniel Siegel have been promoted to co-vice presidents of real estate. Both have successfully managed several major real estate investments for Westgate and are now tasked with growing this area of the business, including overseeing large land holdings for future development.