Seasoned luxury leader returns to Australia to lead Waldorf Astoria’s highly anticipated debut at Sydney’s Circular Quay.
Hilton has announced the appointment of Marlene Poynder as general manager of Waldorf Astoria Sydney, the brand’s first hotel in Australia and a highly anticipated new landmark for Sydney’s Circular Quay, set to open in 2027.
In her role, Poynder will lead the hotel’s end-to-end pre-opening strategy, spearheading team building and capability development, shaping a distinctive service culture, and overseeing all elements of operational readiness and launch execution to ensure a successful market debut.
A globally respected luxury hospitality leader, Poynder brings more than 30 years of international experience across the United States, Asia and Australasia, with a distinguished career leading some of the world’s most celebrated hotels. Her appointment represents the next milestone for Waldorf Astoria Sydney, as Hilton advances plans to introduce its iconic luxury brand to the Australian market.
Poynder has held senior leadership roles at landmark properties including Waldorf Astoria Beijing and Chicago, Conrad New York Downtown, and Park Hyatt Sydney, earning a reputation for translating storied luxury brands into culturally resonant destinations. Most recently, she served as managing director of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, where she led a thoughtful evolution of the guest experience.
“We are delighted to welcome Marlene back to Hilton and to Australia as general manager of Waldorf Astoria Sydney,” said Paul Hutton, area vice president and head of Australasia, Hilton. “Marlene is a highly respected leader with an exceptional track record of guiding iconic luxury hotels in some of the world’s most competitive markets. As an Australian and with a deep connection to the Waldorf Astoria brand coupled with a strong understanding of this region, she is uniquely positioned to lead this landmark hotel as we prepare for Waldorf Astoria’s highly anticipated debut in Australia.”
The appointment is equally welcomed by the hotel’s owner, Fiveight.
“This appointment marks a significant milestone for Waldorf Astoria Sydney and reflects the calibre of leadership behind one of Australia’s most iconic landmark developments. At Fiveight, we’re committed to partnering with world-class operators to set a new benchmark for hospitality in Australia,” said Paige Walker, CEO, Fiveight.
Widely regarded as a trusted custodian of luxury brands, Poynder is known for balancing exacting operational discipline with visionary leadership. Her leadership philosophy centers on craftsmanship, emotional connection and people development, fostering cultures where teams thrive and guests feel both recognised and inspired.
Reflecting on her appointment, Poynder said, “Waldorf Astoria is a brand defined by legacy, elegance and a deep sense of place. To be entrusted with introducing Waldorf Astoria Sydney is both an honour and a responsibility. I look forward to working with our partners and team members to create a hotel that feels distinctly Sydney, while remaining unmistakably Waldorf Astoria.”
Located at One Circular Quay, Waldorf Astoria Sydney will occupy one of the city’s most coveted harbourfront addresses, offering uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The hotel will deliver Waldorf Astoria’s signature hallmarks, including highly personalised service, refined design and world-class culinary experiences, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Australasia.
