Sheraton Keauhou Resort Names Preza Sales Director

Angelina Preza has been named the new director of sales and marketing at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, the Pyramid Hotel Group has announced.

Preza’s roles will include directing the resort’s sales team, meeting its goals for leisure and group business bookings, and soliciting new accounts and maintaining existing ones.

Preza previously served as senior director of sales for the Big Island Visitors Bureau and in director’s positions with Aqua Hotels & Resorts, Sunterra Resorts, Marc Resorts Hawaii and the Lodge at Koele and Manele Bay Hotels.

Preza also has Big Island roots, as her grandparents were born on Hawaii Island and worked at Parker Ranch. According to the resort, Preza is an avid hiker and mountain climber who climbed Mauna Loa in preparation for climbs in Nepal.

“Angelinaʼs prior experience in Hawaii and on Hawaii Island specifically is a plus,” said Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa General Manager Steve Lindburg. “That she is born and raised in Hawaii and understands our role in this community makes me really excited about the enthusiasm and talent she brings to this important position.”

The resort is on track to complete a $16 million facelift in June. The work includes renovation of the main lobby and all guest rooms, suites and meeting spaces.

The resort also has recently teamed with the Nakoa Foundation to offer guests an opportunity to sail on a Hawaiian double-hulled canoe.

Guests can explore historic Keauhou Bay by land and by sea. A 50-minute complimentary walking tour along Keauhou Bay led by Lily Dudoit, the resort’s alakai hooluana (director of cultural activities) is followed by a 1-hour canoe experience, by donation, aboard the Kinikini Hawaiian sailing canoe.

The Kinikini is captained by Nakoa Foundation Executive Director Kalani Nakoa, who is a U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton captain, dive master, rescue diver and lifeguard. The resort described Nakoa as a hospitality industry veteran who is passionate about sharing Hawaii’s culture.

Guest’s donations help support the mission of the Nakoa Foundation which is building future leaders and a strong community. Reservations are required since canoe capacity is limited to just 12 passengers.