PACIFIC 19 Kona Announces New General Manager

March 30, 2023

KAILUA-KONA, HAWAII – PACIFIC 19 Kona, a new design-forward boutique hotel, announced the appointment of Katharina Findlay as General Manager last week. In her new role, Findlay will oversee all daily hotel operations at PACIFIC 19 Kona, spanning from guest relations and housekeeping to revenue management and marketing. The 122-room newly reimagined hotel is accepting reservations for April 1, 2023 and beyond, beckoning independent travelers who seek design-centric accommodations and authentic Hawaiian experiences.

“With a deep background in hospitality and a passion for exploring Hawaii Island, Katharina Findlay is a natural fit for PACIFIC 19 Kona,” said James Evans, Managing Partner of Nine Brains. “We are excited to have Katharina lead our team as we seek to go beyond the typical hotel experience and serve as an insider’s guide to Hawaii Island.”

A native of Germany, Findlay relocated to the United States more than 20 years ago and settled on the east coast. Graduating summa cum laude, Findlay earned a bachelor’s degree in international hotel and tourism management from Johnson & Wales University. Her hospitality career began with roles at Charleston Place Hotel, the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Resortcom International, building a foundational understanding of the visitor experience and guest satisfaction.

Upon receiving a master’s degree in hospitality management from Florida International University, Findlay relocated to Kailua Kona, Hawaii to work for La Tour Hotels & Resorts. As general manager, Findlay oversaw two mixed use properties spanning whole and fractional ownership, directing the resort’s day-to-day activities and managing the homeowner association and rental program. Most recently, Findlay served as Business Development Manager for the Grand Welcome vacation rental management company and as a Director of Front Office for Outrigger Hotels & Resorts.

Findlay will bring her diverse hospitality experience to the day-to-day operations of PACIFIC 19 Kona, fostering a stylish and laidback haven for the modern explorer. The island-urban hotel is targeting adventure travelers who are looking to discover the breadth of what Hawaii has to offer.