Waldorf Astoria® Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Name Mary Beth Harcarufka Director of Human Resources
MAY 11, 2009
ORLANDO, Fla. – Mary Beth Harcarufka has been named director of human resources for the new Waldorf Astoria® Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, scheduled to open October 1, 2009.
In her new position, Harcarufka is responsible for the employment, education and development for all the team members who will be servicing the two properties and Waldorf Astoria Golf Club. She will also oversee benefits and compensation packages as well and labor relations practices.
"While this landmark development will offer the facilities and amenities to foster memorable vacation packages, it is the attention to detail and personal service offered by each team member that will differentiate us in the marketplace," states Peter Kacheris, managing director for the landmark complex. "Mary Beth Harcarufka is a leader in the industry and I look forward to the caliber of professionals that she recruits and trains for this very exciting development."
Armed with 15 years of experience in the industry, the past 10 with Hilton Hotels Corporation, Harcarufka holds a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification. She most recently served as director of human resources for the Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort in Tucson, Ariz., the largest golf resort in southern Arizona featuring 45 holes of golf, 31 tennis courts and 100,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space. Previously, she was based in Beachwood, Ohio, responsible for three hotels in the Hilton portfolio. Prior to that appointment, Harcarufka served as director of human resources for Doubletree Guest Suites in Southfield, Mich. and Doubletree Hotel in Novi, Mich.
Harcarufka received her bachelor of science and masters of business administration from Clemson University in South Carolina.
Bonnet Creek, Opening October 1, 2009
Surrounded on three sides by the Walt Disney World® Resort, Bonnet Creek is a 482-acre vacation destination encompassing the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.
The Waldorf Astoria Orlando will emulate the elegance and grandeur of its legendary New York namesake. Comprised of 497 deluxe rooms and suites, the property will feature signature Waldorf Astoria food and beverage establishments such as Peacock Alley and Bull & Bear, 28,000 square feet of exclusive flexible meeting space and a variety of pre-function areas. The outdoor facilities boast a formal signature pool, encircled by chic private cabanas and complimented by lush tropical landscaping.
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek will transcend the travel experience with 1,000 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, six distinct dining options, a two-acre lagoon-style pool, 122,000 square feet of meeting space and a variety of pre-function areas. Its outdoor venues include Bonnet Creek Island, a private retreat ideal for cocktails or storybook weddings.
Guests of both properties can take advantage of the Rees Jones-designed Waldorf Astoria Golf Club, WA Kids children's program, 24,000-sq.-ft. Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain® and 4,000-sq.-ft. fitness center.
For more information on the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, please call (407) 597-5500 or visit www.WaldorfAstoriaOrlando.com. For more information on the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, please call (407) 597-3600 or visit www.HiltonBonnetCreek.com.
CONTACTS:
Mike Hicks / Gina Stouffer
Lou Hammond & Associates
michaelh@lhammond.com
ginag@lhammond.com
561-655-3836
www.louhammond.com


