Industry News: Natalie Ward Named General Manager of Hotel Cerro

Natalie Ward.

Natalie Ward has been named General Manager of Hotel Cerro in downtown San Luis Obispo, California, where she will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s operations. Prior to joining Hotel Cerro, Ward ran her own hospitality consulting firm and was the Regional Director of Operations for Main Street Hospitality, which owns and manages several hotels in the Berkshires, where her focus was on growing revenue and increased profitability.

Hotel Cerro is a stunning new property located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo and is the perfect intersection of the local culture, California’s rich history, and casual elegance. Designed and built towards LEED Silver specifications, it has 65 spacious guest rooms and suites, a fitness center and spa, rooftop pool deck with 360-degree views, beautiful outdoor areas and a restaurant, SLO Brasserie, which sources ingredients from the hotel’s Edible Garden. The result is an oasis of sustainably designed luxury in the heart of California’s iconic central coast. 

Spa Profile: Spa Cerro at Hotel Cerro

Originally from New England, Ward began her luxury hospitality management career as the Director of Property Operations for the Ocean Edge Resort in Cape Cod, Massachessetts. She went on to become the general manager of The Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha’s Vineyard, where she spearheaded the establishment of the acclaimed fine dining restaurant Opus.

In 2003, Ward was appointed as General Manager of Castle Hill Inn and Resort in Newport, Rhode Island, where she shepherded the property to a prestigious Relais & Chateau designation and numerous awards. Next, she was recruited as Managing Director of two luxury boutique properties in Kennebunkport, Maine: Hidden Pond and The Tides Beach Club.  During her time there, she oversaw expansions, renovations, as well as the establishment of a new restaurant, spa and event space.  She continued to distinguish herself at The Carnegie Abbey Club and The Mirbeau Inn & Spa in New England.

Hotel Cerro is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo and is the perfect intersection of the local culture, California’s rich history, and casual elegance.

“We are very excited to have Natalie take the helm at Hotel Cerro,” says Hamish Marshall, co-owner of Hotel Cerro.  “She has a proven track record of managing unique, luxury properties and brings an abundance of experience that we know will translate into the best possible experience for our guests. We feel she is a great fit for the property and have no doubt that under her leadership Hotel Cerro will reach its full potential as the premier hotel destination in San Luis Obispo.”

For more information and to make reservations, visit Hotel Cerro’s website and follow them on Instagram: @hotelcerroslo

[Image courtesy of Hotel Cerro]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk