Waterford Appoints Michael Heaton VPO and Karen Bachofner VP, Select Service
WATERFORD, CT, October 2, 2009 - Waterford Hotel Group has announced the appointments of Michael Heaton as Vice President, Operations and Karen Bachofner as Vice President of Sales, Select Service for the national hotel management firm. Waterford Hotel Group professionally manages 25 properties in 9 states, representing nearly 3,500 hotel rooms nationwide, as well as the Connecticut Convention Center.
As Vice President of Operations, Heaton is responsible for the operations of Waterford Hotel Group's managed portfolio, including developing and maintaining relationships with ownership and franchise partners, budgeting, associate development, guest satisfaction scores, maintaining Waterford and brand service standards, and the overall property performance. Heaton joined Waterford Hotel Group in 1997 and has held numerous management positions since that time, including General Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Cromwell, Resident Manager of the Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa in Groton, as well as General Manager of Waterford-managed properties throughout the United States. He most recently served as Regional Hotel Director for Waterford Hotel Group. Heaton is the former President of the Connecticut Lodging Association and Lodging Representative for the Connecticut Restaurant Association. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from the State University of New York at Albany.
As Vice President of Sales, Bachofner directly oversees the sales efforts of the select service properties in the Waterford Hotel Group portfolio. She is also responsible for the company's revenue management and e-commerce initiatives. Bachofner joined Waterford Hotel Group in 1987, and has held several positions including Catering Manager and Director of Sales for brands such as Sheraton, Marriott, Best Western, Holiday Inn and Comfort Inn. Most recently she served as Regional Director of Sales and Corporate Director of Revenue Management for Waterford Hotel Group. Bachofner is a member of Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and is certified to teach AchieveGlobal's Professional Selling Skills.
"Mike's and Karen's tenure at Waterford is a true testament to their dedication and excellent leadership skills," commented Rob Winchester, President & COO of Waterford Hotel Group. "I look forward to working with them in their new roles," added Winchester.
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