Executive Profiles

Len Wolman, Chairman and CEO

Len Wolman has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He serves as Chairman and CEO of Waterford Group, LLC, a group of companies and partnerships specializing in the development, ownership, and management of hotel, venue, and gaming projects. Under his leadership, Waterford Group has been involved in developing and operating projects totaling more than $3 billion. Len holds a National Diploma in Hotel Management from the Hotel School of Technikon Witwatersrand in South Africa.

Robert Winchester, President and COO

Rob Winchester has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, including an extensive background in operations, finance, development, acquisition, and asset management. Rob is responsible for all aspects of on-going operations for the company. Rob joined Waterford Hotel Group in 1990 and has served in numerous capacities since that time. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Connecticut.

Gregory Smith, Vice President Business Development

Greg Smith is involved in all aspects of hotel acquisitions and the development of relationships with financial and institutional fund partners. An industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality field, Greg’s prior experience includes positions with Boykin Management Company and Interstate Hotels & Resorts. He holds a Bachelor of Business degree in Administration/Accounting from Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Michael Heaton, Vice President Operations

Michael Heaton has 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Since joining Waterford Hotel Group in 1997, Michael held numerous management positions at Waterford-managed properties before assuming the role of Vice President Operations. He is responsible for oversight of the hotel operations. Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the State University of New York.

Judith Moran, Vice President Human Resources

Judy Moran joined Waterford Hotel Group in 2004, bringing more than 25 years of hospitality experience to the organization. Judy's focus at Waterford is on employee and labor relations, executive recruitment, compensation and benefit design, performance management, and organizational strategic goals. Her past experience includes operations and human resources positions with Hyatt, Le Meridien and Sonesta. Judy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

Brien Fox, Vice President Sales and Marketing

Brien Fox has more than 25 years of sales and operations experience in the hospitality industry. Brien oversees the sales efforts at Waterford's full service hotels. His background includes 10 years of sales leadership with Starwood Hotels and Resorts prior to his appointment with Waterford. Brien holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from New York University.

Karen Bachofner, Vice President Sales and Revenue Management

Karen Bachofner has more than 20 years of sales experience in the hospitality industry. She first joined Waterford Hotel Group in 1987 and has held several sales positions at Waterford-managed properties before joining the corporate team to direct the sales, revenue management and e-commerce efforts. Karen is a member of Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and is certified to teach Achieve Global’s Professional Selling Skills.

Howard Esquirol, Vice President Accounting

Howard Esquirol is a key financial link between Waterford Hotel Group, property ownership, managers, and accountants. He joined Waterford Hotel Group in 2005 with more than 20 years of extensive experience in all aspects of hotel financial operations, strategic planning, and financial analysis. Howard previously held key financial positions for Marriott, Hilton, Omni, Wyndham and Sofitel branded hotels throughout the United States. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Catawba College in Salisbury, North Carolina.

John DelGrosso, Vice President Construction, Engineering and Technical Services

John DelGrosso has more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry. His wide range of experience in construction and project management includes numerous commercial and hotel projects, with direct oversight of more than 20 new-build hotels and $100 million in capital projects. John attended Mitchell College and the Hartford Graduate Center.