Karen Whitt

Karen Whitt is a prominent figure in the hospitality industry with extensive experience in luxury resort management, particularly in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Here's an overview of her career and accomplishments:

Career Highlights

Karen Whitt began her hospitality career in Texas before moving to Jamaica and then to the Turks and Caicos Islands.13 Her journey in Turks and Caicos started in 2005 when she became the General Manager of The Somerset Resort on Grace Bay.12 She held this position for about 5 years and 7 months, from July 2005 to January 2011.2

After her tenure at The Somerset, Whitt's career continued to flourish:

• In February 2011, she became the General Manager of The Palms Turks and Caicos.1
• In 2015, she was promoted to Senior Vice-President with the Hartling Group.1
• Currently, she serves as the Vice-President of Marketing and Brand Development for Hartling Group Turks and Caicos, managing multiple award-winning resorts.1

Achievements and Recognition

Karen Whitt has received numerous accolades throughout her career:

• Named "Hotelier of the Year" in Turks and Caicos Islands
• Recognized as "Ultimate Hotelier" by Island Destinations
• Awarded "Top General Manager Worldwide" by Luxury Travel Advisor1

Professional Involvement

Whitt is actively involved in various professional organizations:

• Served as President of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association from 2008 to 2013
• Executive Board member of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association
• Chairman of the CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace1

Community Engagement

Beyond her professional roles, Karen Whitt is committed to community service:

• Chairman of the TCI International Film Festival
• Created and chaired the successful "In the Pink" event for the National Cancer Society for 12 years1

Education

Karen Whitt holds a Bachelor of Business Management and Communications from Eastern New Mexico University and a Hospitality Management Degree from The School of Hotel Administration at Cornell University.1

Her extensive experience and leadership in the hospitality industry have made Karen Whitt a respected figure in luxury resort management, particularly in the Turks and Caicos Islands.