Keith Chouinard Appointed Director of Sales & Marketing at Wayfinder Newport

Wayfinder Newport has announced the appointment of Keith Chouinard as its new Director of Sales & Marketing. In his expanded role, Chouinard will take the lead in managing all sales and marketing efforts for the property, with a focus on fostering strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth, and refining the hotel’s brand positioning. This appointment comes at a significant time for the property, which is in the midst of an exciting new chapter following its full relaunch.

A New Leadership Chapter at Wayfinder Newport

Keith Chouinard’s appointment to Director of Sales & Marketing at Wayfinder Newport signals the beginning of an important phase for the hotel. With the property’s recent relaunch, Chouinard is tasked with overseeing a range of critical activities. His strategic input will be crucial as he focuses on driving the sales and marketing efforts that will position the hotel as a prime destination for both visitors and partners. By leveraging his extensive experience, Chouinard aims to increase the property’s visibility and revenue, ensuring its continued success in a highly competitive market.

Extensive Experience in the Hospitality Industry

With more than 20 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, Keith Chouinard brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Before joining Wayfinder Newport, Chouinard served as Chief Operating Officer for The Newport Experience, a position where he was responsible for ensuring operational and financial excellence across a diverse portfolio. This portfolio included not only hotels but also a restaurant, a seasonal waterfront event venue, a 175-slip marina, and a 101-foot schooner, showcasing his ability to manage a range of assets within the hospitality sector.

Chouinard’s previous roles have seen him lead a variety of properties to success. Notably, he was the Director of Sales & Marketing at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, where his leadership was instrumental in securing a Forbes Five-Star rating for the iconic property. Under his guidance, The Chanler achieved record-breaking performance, solidifying his reputation for driving results in the luxury hotel sector. His career also includes senior roles at prestigious establishments such as Hotel Viking, Revere Hotel Boston Common, and the Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa. These experiences have positioned Chouinard as a seasoned leader capable of elevating a brand’s presence and operational success.

Key Contributions to the Hospitality Sector

Throughout his career, Chouinard has consistently delivered exceptional results in terms of market performance. At The Chanler, his ability to position the hotel as a standout luxury destination was paramount in its achieving a Forbes Five-Star rating. He also played a key role in driving RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) growth at several hotels, including Hotel Viking and the Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa, where he maintained top market performance for three consecutive years. These successes highlight Chouinard’s skill in understanding market dynamics and executing strategies that result in significant business growth.

A Strong Foundation in Hospitality Leadership

Chouinard’s extensive background in the hospitality industry began at an early stage in his career. After graduating from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, he started his career in hospitality as a banquet server at Danversport Yacht Club. This humble beginning provided Chouinard with a solid foundation in the industry, allowing him to develop a deep understanding of both the operational and guest service aspects of hospitality.

His journey in hospitality management has since taken him to prestigious resorts across the country. Chouinard has held leadership roles at some of the most renowned properties in the U.S., including Boulders Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Vail Cascade Resort & Spa in Colorado, and Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club in Cape Cod. These experiences have shaped his approach to hospitality management, where he continues to prioritize guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and strategic growth.

An Active Member of the Newport Hospitality Community

Chouinard has long been an active figure in the Newport hospitality community, contributing to the region’s growth as a premier year-round destination. He has served as the Chairman of the Board for Discover Newport, an organization dedicated to promoting the city as a top-tier destination. His passion for Newport’s growth and development is evident in his work with the local community, where he has worked to strengthen the city’s position within the broader tourism market.

Chouinard’s collaborative leadership style has also played a crucial role in his success. He is known for fostering strong relationships across all levels of an organization, ensuring that operational excellence is a consistent priority. His ability to inspire teams and maintain a focus on both guest satisfaction and financial performance has made him a respected leader in the industry.

What’s Next for Wayfinder Newport?

With Keith Chouinard at the helm of sales and marketing, Wayfinder Newport is poised for continued growth and success. The property, which has recently undergone a full relaunch, will benefit greatly from his wealth of experience in driving strategic partnerships and revenue growth. His efforts will focus on ensuring that Wayfinder Newport remains a top choice for guests, while also refining the property’s branding to attract new customers and partners.

Chouinard’s expertise in the luxury hospitality market, combined with his strong ties to the Newport area, positions him as an ideal leader to guide Wayfinder Newport through its next phase of growth. The appointment is expected to further solidify the property’s reputation as a premier destination in the region.

The appointment of Keith Chouinard as Director of Sales & Marketing at Wayfinder Newport marks an exciting new chapter for the hotel. With his extensive experience in hospitality and proven track record in driving sales, marketing, and operational success, Chouinard is well-positioned to take Wayfinder Newport to new heights. His leadership will be key in positioning the property as a leading destination in the competitive Newport market, ensuring both revenue growth and long-term success.