Hilton has introduced the appointment of a seasoned luxurious chief who returns to Australia to take the helm on the soon-to-launch first Waldorf Astoria in Sydney’s Round Quay.
Marlene Poynder has been appointed Common Supervisor of Waldorf Astoria Sydney, the model’s first resort in Australia set to open in 2027.
In her position, Poynder will lead the resort’s end-to-end pre‑opening technique, spearheading crew constructing and functionality improvement, shaping a particular service tradition, and overseeing all parts of operational readiness and launch execution to make sure a profitable market debut.
A globally revered hospitality chief, Poynder brings greater than 30 years of worldwide expertise throughout the USA, Asia and Australasia at among the world’s most celebrated resorts.
Poynder has held senior management roles at landmark properties together with Waldorf Astoria Beijing and Chicago, Conrad New York Downtown, and Park Hyatt Sydney. Most just lately, she served as managing director of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Resort in New York.
“We’re delighted to welcome Marlene again to Hilton and to Australia as normal supervisor of Waldorf Astoria Sydney,” Hilton Space Vice President and head of Australasia, Paul Hutton stated.
“Marlene is a extremely revered chief with an distinctive observe file of guiding iconic luxurious resorts in among the world’s best markets. As an Australian and with a deep connection to the Waldorf Astoria model coupled with a robust understanding of this area, she is uniquely positioned to steer this landmark resort as we put together for Waldorf Astoria’s extremely anticipated debut in Australia.”

Resort’s proprietor, Fiveight additionally welcomed the appointment.
“This appointment marks a major milestone for Waldorf Astoria Sydney and displays the calibre of management behind certainly one of Australia’s most iconic landmark developments. At Fiveight, we’re dedicated to partnering with world-class operators to set a brand new benchmark for hospitality in Australia,” Fiveight CEO, Paige Walker stated.
Extensively thought to be a trusted custodian of luxurious manufacturers, Poynder’s management philosophy facilities on craftsmanship, emotional connection and folks improvement.
“Waldorf Astoria is a model outlined by legacy, magnificence and a deep sense of place. To be entrusted with introducing Waldorf Astoria Sydney is each an honour and a accountability. I sit up for working with our companions and crew members to create a resort that feels distinctly Sydney, whereas remaining unmistakably Waldorf Astoria,” Poynder stated.


