HGV Appoints GMs to Hawaii Island Resorts

Hilton Grand Vacations has promoted two of its team members to general manager positions at two Hawai’i resorts.

Robert Ishihara has been promoted to general manager at Kings’ Land by Hilton Grand Vacations, a role in which he will also oversee nearby resorts Kohala Suites and The Bay Club. During Ishihara’s previous tenure as general manager of Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations, the resort received numerous accolades including Outrigger’s Hospitality Award (2018), Hawaii Green Business Recognition (2018, 2020) and HGV’s coveted Connie Award (2017).

Wilbert W.S. Lee Jr. has been promoted to general manager at Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations. Lee joined HGV in 2008 as resort manager at Kings’ Land and has been involved in the Ocean Tower project since the opening of the resort’s first phase in October 2018. Lee oversaw pre-opening requirements, built the team to manage the resort’s day-to-day operations, and developed strong relationships with the team at Hilton Waikoloa Village to ensure a seamless experience for owners and guests.

Under Ishihara’s and Lee’s leadership, the two resorts have hosted two recent CSR events that support the Hawai’i community. Thanks to participation from over 350 HGV team members, more than $15,000 was raised for the 2021 Annual HLTA Charity Walk to benefit noteworthy nonprofit organizations. Team members also continue to participate in efforts such as highway cleanups, most recently in partnership with Waikoloa Land Company, maintaining a portion of the highway fronting the Waikoloa Beach Resort.

“HGV is very proud to have both Robert and Wilbert at the helm of two of Hawaii’s leading resorts,” said Rob Gunthner. “Both of these general managers bring more than 25 years of knowledge and experience in Hawaii’s hospitality industry, making them valuable leaders that understand the importance of malama as we grow in Hawai’i.”