Over the past 30 years, Waterford Hotel Group has compiled a group of passionate people who have mastered their area of the industry. Our more than 250 years of combined experience in our specialties mesh perfectly together to create the award winning hotel group we’re proud to call ours–Waterford. We can’t wait to meet you.
About Us
Principals
Len Wolman
Chairman and CEO
Len Wolman has more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He serves as Chairman and CEO of Waterford Group, LLC, a leader in the hospitality and gaming industry that specializes in the development, ownership, and management of hotel, venue, and gaming projects. Under his leadership, Waterford Group has been involved in developing and operating projects totaling more than $3 billion. Len holds a National Diploma in Hotel Management from the Hotel School of Technikon Witwatersrand in South Africa.
Mark Wolman
Principal and Director
Mark Wolman is a Principal and Director of Waterford Group. He has more than 30 years of experience in land development, residential and commercial construction, hospitality development and operations, as well as asset management. In his role with Waterford, Mark has been integrally involved in the development and supervision of projects totaling more than $3 billion.
Leadership
Michael Heaton
President
Since joining Waterford Hotel Group in 1997, Michael Heaton has held numerous management positions at Waterford-managed properties before assuming the role of Vice President, Operations in 2009. In January 2018, Michael was promoted to the position of President for Waterford Hotel Group and is responsible for all aspects of on-going operations for the company. Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the State University of New York.
Raj Dansinghani
Chief Financial Officer
Raj Dansinghani is responsible for all corporate and property level finance, debt, and audit and risk management for the organization. Raj joined Waterford in 2005 as Chief Accounting Officer for Waterford Group, working with ownership and management in multiple areas, including financing, franchising, financial reporting, compliance, audit/tax coordination, and strategic analysis. Previously, Raj worked as a senior manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from Nichols College and is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Connecticut.
Duane Schroder
Vice President Operations
Duane Schroder is Vice President, Operations for Waterford Hotel Group and is responsible for the oversight of the portfolio’s operations. Duane joined the organization in 2002 as part of an International Training Program with the University of Johannesburg. He has filled many positions since that time, including Regional Hotel Director and General Manager of numerous hotels in our portfolio. Duane received his Hospitality Degree from Witwatersrand University.
Judith Moran
Vice President Human Resources
Judy Moran joined Waterford Hotel Group in 2004, bringing more than 25 years of hospitality experience to the organization. Judy’s focus at Waterford is on employee and labor relations, executive recruitment, compensation and benefit design, performance management and organizational strategic goals. Her past experience includes operations and human resources positions with Hyatt, Le Meridien and Sonesta. Judy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.
Karen Bachofner
Vice President Sales & Marketing
Karen Bachofner has more than 25 years of sales experience in the hospitality industry. She first joined Waterford Hotel Group in 1987 and has held several sales positions at Waterford-managed properties before joining the corporate team to direct the sales, revenue management and e-commerce efforts of the select service properties in the Waterford portfolio. Karen is a member of Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and is certified to teach Achieve Global’s Professional Selling Skills.
John DelGrosso
Vice President Construction, Engineering and Technical Services
John DelGrosso has more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry. His wide range of experience in construction and project management includes numerous commercial and hotel projects, with direct oversight of more than 20 new-build hotels and $100 million in capital projects. John attended Mitchell College and the Hartford Graduate Center.
Michael Scott
Vice President Technology
Michael Scott has been with Waterford Hotel Group for more than 15 years. He manages brand standards, system security, and technology infrastructure with a focus on improving workflow productivity. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Eastern Connecticut State University.
Brian Ehrlich
Vice President Acquisitions & Business Development - West
Brian Ehrlich is Vice President Acquisitions & Business Development – West for Waterford Hotel Group responsble for securing management and investment opportunities for the company. He brings a wealth of experience to Waterford with expertise in deal sourcing, market intelligence, and underwriting in both acquisitions and new development. Brian earned his Bachelor of Science degree in American History from Harvard University. Based on the west coast, Brian is focused on the westward expansion of Waterford’s hospitality footprint.
Chris Chiappa
Vice President Acquisitions & Business Development - East
Chris Chiappa is Vice President Acquisitions & Business Development – East. In this role, Chris seeks new business for Waterford Hotel Group, including management and investment opportunities, with a concentrated effort in the eastern region of the United States. His hospitality career with Waterford began in 2012 as Operations Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Cromwell, Connecticut. His career trajectory led him to various roles with the company, including General Manager, Financial Analyst, and, most recently, Corporate Director of Business Development. Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from University of New Hampshire – Whittemore School of Business and Economics.
