There’s something special about building a career where ocean breezes meet five-star service, and every day begins with a view of paradise. At Marriott’s resorts in Hawaii, work feels like more than a job—it’s an experience shaped by culture, community, and opportunity. We spoke with three associates at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali to learn how they built their careers in this extraordinary place, what makes life here so fulfilling, and why they wouldn’t trade it for anywhere else.
From Dubai to Maui: Bipin S.
With over 14 years at Marriott, Bipin’s career has taken him from line-level roles in Dubai to management positions in China, to seven years in San Francisco, and now to Maui as Director of Operations at the The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali.
When considering Hawaii, Bipin was motivated by the chance for professional growth through international experience and exposure to new markets.” Since arriving at The Westin, he’s known it was the right move. “Some associates have been here for more than 50 years. [They are] an incredible source of knowledge and perspective.”
In his new destination, Bipin found more than colleagues—he discovered a work culture that made him feel at home. “Hawaii is more about family— ‘ohana’—and that focus made me feel at home from my very first day.”
For him, the goal has always been to experience culture locally rather than as a tourist, and the island lifestyle gave him exactly that, and more. “Living here isn’t just about being a tourist on the beach; it’s about experiencing the culture and seeing things like whale watching from the resort itself.”
Chasing Waterfalls & Aloha Spirit: Rachel H.
Rachel joined Marriott after more than 15 years in hospitality and now serves as F&B Manager at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali. “This was a huge move and mind-blowing change for me and my family, but big Dreams take big commitment and dedication,” she says.
Rachel came to Maui not only for the Aloha way of living, but because of her love for the island, and her desire to give back. “I wanted to give back to the beautiful community of Maui and to help rebuild Lahaina after the devasting fires.”
“What I love most about living in Maui is the adventure of chasing waterfalls, sunsets and endless beauty. I live close to a place called Iao Valley; I go there at least 4 to 5 times a week. It is my healing place.” Beyond the island’s natural beauty, Rachel finds fulfillment in career growth and the positive impact she makes every day.. “What I love most about working here, is the knowledge I’ve gained in such a short time and the impact I leave on my team and guests.” Her biggest piece of advice: “If it is your dream, DO NOT HESITATE. Jump off the cliff into your wildest dreams.”
From Chicago Kitchens to Maui Sunsets: Tim W.
After more than a decade in hospitality, Executive Chef Tim Wedell discovered something extraordinary at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali: the chance to lead in a place where the pace of life mirrors the calm of the ocean. When the opportunity to join Marriott in Hawaii came up, he didn’t think twice. “This move was about giving my kids a cultural experience like no other,” he says. With Marriott’s relocation team taking care of every detail, from shipping to settling in, the transition was smooth and welcoming.
Today, Tim’s days look very different from his years on the mainland. “The commute went from two hours a day to six minutes each way—15 hours a week back in my life,” he says. That extra time has meant more family dinners, more beach days, and greater balance. “The Aloha Spirit means interconnected care for everyone—neighbors, friends, and strangers alike,” he adds. “I love being a leader, asking ‘how are you,’ and ‘how can I help?’”
He admits that life on the island moves at its own rhythm. “Island Time is real—make appointments, don’t sweat it, and go with the flow,” he laughs. For Tim, that slower pace has been part of the magic. When asked to sum up his relocation experience, his answer is simple: “Exciting. Cultural. Outstanding.” Working at Marriott in Hawaii has given Tim more than a new role—it’s given him a new way of life.
Why Hawaii?
Working in Hawaii has given Bipin, Rachel, and Tim more than just a beautiful place to work. It’s offered the chance to grow their careers, connect deeply with their communities, and embrace a lifestyle rooted in the spirit of aloha. Each describes a culture of connection and care, where associates are treated like family, traditions are honored, and balance feels within reach. Surrounded by natural beauty and supported by Marriott’s seamless relocation process, they’ve found both professional growth and personal fulfillment in a place where career and paradise truly meet.
As Rachel puts it, “You deserve to see yourself reach your highest potential.” For those ready to take the leap, a career with Marriott in Hawaii offers the chance to grow, give back, and live surrounded by paradise.
