Westgate Resorts Announces Key Leadership Appointments & Executive Promotions

07.01.2025 - 21:15 / travelpulse.com / Lacey Pfalz

WHY IT RATES: Westgate Resorts, which offers resorts from Las Vegas to Florida, is adding new leadership to enhance growth in 2025. — Lacey Pfalz, Associate Writer, TravelPulse

Westgate Resorts is pleased to announce a series of leadership appointments and executive promotions as part of a broader plan to position the company for future growth in 2025 and beyond.

"This year will be a year marked by growth and strategic investments," said Westgate Resorts CEO Jim Gissy. "We're excited to introduce these new leaders who will enable our business to scale and deliver the best possible experience for our owners and guests. These same individuals will also mentor the next generation of leaders within our organization."

Mitch Less has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Westgate Resorts. Less will oversee Resort Operations, Food & Beverage, IT, Risk Management and several other critical areas, working directly with company leadership to execute Westgate's strategic business plan. He brings over 35 years of industry experience, having served as a Partner at Grant Thornton, where he specialized in the hospitality and real estate sectors. Less has worked with prestigious brands like Ritz-Carlton, Marriott and Hilton, as well as with large family-owned businesses such as Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits.

John Willman, a 30-year veteran of Westgate, has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Since joining the company in 1994, Willman has played a crucial role in transforming Westgate's finance operations, including overseeing its financial reporting and loan portfolio. In his new role, Willman will continue to lead Mortgage Operations, Accounts Services and Financial Planning & Analysis, focusing on building a world-class finance function to support the company's expansion plans. He was recently appointed to the Board of Directors of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA).

Jared Saft, an 18-year veteran of Westgate, has been promoted to Chief Business & Strategy Officer and will continue to lead marketing, hotel sales, product development and owner services, while also overseeing the company's long-term growth strategy. In addition, he will also oversee Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino and Human Resources. Saft played a key role in the successful launch of Westgate's loyalty program, World of Westgate (WOW), and has led several important initiatives, including the company's partnership with Choice Hotels and the development of Westgate University. In addition to his role at Westgate, Saft serves as Chair-Elect of ARDA.

Dana Wadsworth, a 29-year veteran of Westgate, is being promoted to Chief of Staff, while also retaining her role as Senior Vice President of VOA, Westgate's