John Woolley has been appointed general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, bringing more than 20 years of experience with Marriott International.
Woolley joins the Seven Mile Beach resort – which is owned by Marriott – from JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort and Spa in Vietnam, where he has been general manager since 2023.
He previously led The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, for three years, from 2020 to 2022.
His appointment marks a return to both the Ritz-Carlton brand and the Caribbean, where he previously held several senior positions.
“The Caribbean played an important role in shaping me as a hospitality leader, and I’m eager to return with the perspective I’ve gained from leading teams and properties across four continents,” Woolley said in a press release.
He added that he looked forward to building on the resort’s reputation for service, dining, wellness and events.
Woolley previously served as area director for the Caribbean and Latin America, overseeing revenue strategy for a portfolio of 18 hotels and resorts.
Earlier in his career, he was director of sales and marketing at the Aruba Marriott Resort, helping relaunch the property following a $50 million renovation.
His other roles have included leadership positions in St Thomas, Haiti and Mexico, as well as senior appointments across Asia.
Federico Greppi, president of Marriott International for the Caribbean and Latin America, said Woolley brought a combination of international leadership experience, knowledge of the Ritz-Carlton brand and a strong track record in the region.
“He has successfully led teams and hotels across some of the world’s most competitive luxury markets, while remaining focused on the people and service that ultimately define a great hotel,” he added.
In his new role, Woolley will oversee the resort’s operations and strategic direction.
He will also look after the resort’s signature events, including Cayman Cookout, the annual culinary festival hosted by chef Eric Ripert.
The 18th edition of the event is scheduled for 14 to 17 January 2027, bringing international chefs and culinary personalities to Grand Cayman for dinners, tastings, demonstrations and other experiences.
