Hilton Manila names executive directors

MANILA, Philippines — Hilton Manila recently announced key appointments –  Raul Aquino as director of operations, Nina Quinto as director of human resources, Joanne Gomez as director of business development and Freddieliz Esguerra as director of finance – to form part of the pre-opening team spearheaded by the hotel’s general manager, Simon McGrath.

With a solid 28 years work experience in the hotel industry, Aquino has worked with global hotel chains such as Hyatt Hotels, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Peninsula Hotels, New World Hotels & Resorts, and Accor Hotels where he honed his expertise in hotel operations. Prior to his appointment in Hilton Manila, he served as the resident manager of Novotel Hua Hin Cha Am Beach Resort & Spa in Thailand, where he made a strong mark in operational efficiency, profitability and property guest satisfaction.

A seasoned human resources and management practitioner with 21 years of practice under her belt, Quinto played a key role in the property pre-opening teams of both the Marriott and Hyatt Hotels in Manila.  She was the director of human resources at Hyatt City of Dreams Manila prior to joining Hilton Manila. She will take the lead on Hilton Manila’s talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management and employee engagement initiatives.

Gomez is an established prime mover in the hospitality industry with 23 years work experience in the fields of sales, marketing and operations.  She was formerly affiliated with The Ascott Limited for 17 years.  During her tenure, Joanne was the director of cluster sales and marketing of multi-awarded properties in the Philippines and Thailand, and was later promoted to general manager of the company’s flagship property in Makati.  In her new role as director of business development, she will lead the commercial team, encompassing sales, marketing and revenue management to optimize market share through effective positioning and implementation of business plans to establish a roster of top corporate clientele and maximize rooms and banquet sales revenues.

Prior to joining Hilton Manila, Esguerra was financial controller for two international brands, Dusit Thani Manila and Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island, Cebu. Her exposure in hotel financial operations has equipped her to drive the financial planning of the company through analyzing performance and risk. As Hilton Manila’s director of finance, she will be managing all financial aspects including driving profitability, operational controls, and overseeing the hotel’s financial strategy and forecasting.

Set to open this quarter,  Hilton Manila forms an integral part of Resorts World Manila and is strategically located adjacent to Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3. Featuring 357 guest rooms and suites, five food and beverage outlets, an expansive resort-style pool, a fitness center and function rooms including a ballroom, Hilton Manila is an urban oasis for business and leisure travelers.