The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel announced Kelly Steward as the new General Manager of the 18-acre oceanfront resort. Steward spent two out of her three decades of hotel experience with The Ritz-Carlton, where she managed revenue management, strategic sales, and operations for several resort and city properties across the nation. In her new role, Steward will lead the brand growth strategy and oversee operations across the Southern Californian resort, celebrated for its 396 modern coastal-inspired guest rooms and suites, diverse culinary program, and unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean across guestrooms, dining outlets, and meetings and event spaces.
"I am delighted to join The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel and shepherd a new era of guest experiences and property-wide enhancements that anticipate the evolving needs of luxury travelers." says Steward. "As a longtime leader and mentor, I look forward to empowering the resort's ladies and gentlemen to help me shape the future of this beautiful property."
Steward joined The Ritz-Carlton in 2001 as a guest services manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. She served in various leadership roles across front-of-house and operations for The Ritz-Carlton, including St. Louis, Dallas, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Cleveland, and Rancho Mirage, before her most recent appointment in Dana Point.
Across her tenure, Steward has served as a lead trainer for over 21 hotel and resort openings and was twice nominated for the J. Willard Marriott Award of Excellence Award. Steward is involved in several local business and philanthropic community organizations. She is a longstanding member of the Women's Leadership Forum and is a certified Cultural Ambassador Speaker at The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center. Steward is on the Board of Directors for Visit Dana Point and looks forward to supporting philanthropic events around the destination. Steward is an Ohio State fan and takes inspiration for mentorship through the strategic collaboration found in football.