The upcoming VAI Resort in Glendale, Ariz., has introduced its executive team ahead of its opening next year. The team, which has more than 200 years of combined experience in the global hospitality industry, includes leaders who have worked at Starwood, Marriott, Waldorf Astoria, Sheraton, Aimbridge, Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, Penn Entertainment and AEG Live.
“Our executive team represents the pinnacle of expertise and dedication in the hospitality industry," VAI Resort CEO and Co-Owner Grant Fisher said in a statement. "Each member brings a wealth of experience and a unique vision that will ensure VAI Resort sets new standards of luxury and entertainment in Arizona.”
The latest addition to the team is Lora Picini as general counsel. Picini most recently worked with Ceasars Entertainment Corporation.
The rest of the team includes:
Howard Weiss, senior vice president of entertainment and sponsorships, leads the design and programming of VAI’s $50 million performance stage for world class bands, DJs and performers. For the past 20 years, Weiss has worked for MGM Resorts, Penn Entertainment, PURE Management Group, AEG Presents, Caesars Entertainment and Area15.
Rian Kirkman, senior vice president of marketing, leads the marketing function for VAI Resort. Throughout his career, Kirkman has held a variety of hospitality marketing leadership positions, leading marketing efforts for resorts at Caesars Entertainment and The Venetian.
Ben Yoo, vice president of hotel operations, is responsible for all hotel operations at VAI Resort. His professional trajectory includes executive leadership roles in prestigious Five-Star properties across iconic locations such as Las Vegas, Beverly Hills, and Dallas. Among the establishments he's been associated with are Hotel Bel-Air, Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, Wynn, Encore Las Vegas, and Hotel Swexan.
Ryan Littiman, vice president of food and beverage, previously worked as the director of F&B at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville. Over Ryan’s 30-year career with Marriott, he has opened two JW Marriott properties in San Antonio and Tucson, Ariz., and supported the food and beverage and culinary operations at hotels in Chicago; Palm Desert, Calif.; and Dallas.
Diana Hindi, vice president of human resources, has held key leadership roles at The Phoenician Resort, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort + Spa and Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort.