New titles, promotions for Sadler, Barnes-Smith, UV

TORONTO — A realignment of Unique Vacations Inc.’s leadership team includes promotions and new titles for several of the best-known names affiliated with Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts in the Canadian travel industry.

The goal is a strengthened executive roster ready to push forward to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of a post-pandemic marketplace, while continuing to position the company as the leader of luxury travel throughout the Caribbean.

“Experienced leadership is always important, but during a moment of transition as we are in now, it’s critical to meet the opportunity ahead. As leisure travel returns, we’re seeing a rising demand for knowledgeable and customer-centric expertise to guide decisions,” said Jeff Clarke, CEO of Unique Vacations, Inc. (UVI), appointed in April 2020.

Adds Clarke: “This team of seasoned pros is focused on the guest and well positioned for what I know are the travel industry’s greatest days ahead.”

The changes, effective immediately, include:

GARY SADLER, OD.

Executive Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations

Gary Sadler, OD, is heralded by travel advisors worldwide and credited with many innovative and award-winning programs, including the Chairman’s Royal Club. He pioneered the organization’s Canadian market, rising through the ranks to his most recent position of Senior Vice President of Sales. Sadler will now serve as Executive Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations, committed to the continued fostering of relationships with the broader industry including travel networks, airline partners, tour operators, travel associations, tourist boards and various government entities.

MAUREEN BARNES-SMITH

Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Canada

Maureen Barnes-Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing in Canada has been promoted to Vice President Sales and Marketing, Canada. A company veteran of 27 years, Barnes-Smith has successfully led the company’s growth and expansion across Canada, making it the largest operation of any Caribbean resort chain in the country. A Director of Philanthropy for the not-for-profit Sandals Foundation in Canada, Barnes-Smith is also active in the Jamaican Diaspora community.

MAGGIE RIVERA

Chief Communications & Strategy Officer

Maggie Rivera has been named Chief Communications and Strategy Officer. With close to 25 years with the company, Rivera is now responsible for strategic insights, communications including earned media and influencer relations, partner agency management, corporate communications and public affairs, celebrity engagement, corporate social responsibility and social impact initiatives.

TONY CORTIZAS

Senior Vice President of Brand Development

After a 15-year hiatus, branding expert Tony Cortizas has returned to UVI as SVP of Brand Development. During his first stint with the company Cortizas was part of the team that brought to life some of Sandals Resorts’ expanded weddings offerings. He was also instrumental in developing the Beaches Resorts brand.

TONYA HAWRYLUK

Senior Vice President of Group Development

Tonya Hawryluk, currently serving as Vice President, becomes Senior Vice President of Group Development. Hawryluk has been with UVI for more than 25 years. The company’s MICE market has flourished with Hawryluk at the helm. Hawryluk will be responsible for engineering the return of group incentive travel.

DEBBIE-ANN WHITE

Senior Vice President of Events, Experiences & Promotions

Debbie-Ann White, Unique Vacations Inc. SVP of Public Relations & Promotions, becomes SVP of Events, Experiences & Promotions, reflecting the organization’s goal to strengthen and develop consumer insights and external business relationships between the brands, key partners and allies.

WILLIAM TULLMANN

Vice President of Operations & Revenue Strategy

Hospitality revenue management expert William Tullmann, CRME, C.Dir, has been promoted from Director to Vice President of Operations & Revenue Strategy, where he will expand initiatives that grow global distribution, optimize revenue, and improve commercial operations.

GARTH LAIRD

Vice President of Trade Sales, US

Current Senior National Director of Sales, Garth Laird has been promoted to Vice President of Trade Sales, US. Laird joined UVI as a BDM, rising through the ranks as Director of Sales Industry Programs, where he was repeatedly recognized for his talent for sales, including winning the Chairman’s Award for Outstanding Sales.