Mexico, Punta de Mita , Riviera Nayarit . July 22, 2020

W Punta de Mita, an indigenous-inspired luxury beach resort located in Mexico's coveted Riviera Nayarit, has appointed David Gauna as General Manager. In his new role, Gauna will be responsible for overseeing daily resort operations, managing budgeting/profitability, overseeing team development, and ensuring overall guest satisfaction.

Mexican-born Gauna has more than 20 years of industry experience, having led operations, rooms, sales and marketing teams in Marriott Hotels & Resorts throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Throughout his career, Gauna has worked for five different brands in the Marriott International portfolio, was named General Manager of the Year for Marriott's CALA region, and sat on the Business Council Chair for Mexico for three consecutive years. In 2011, he oversaw the opening of the 288-room Courtyard by Marriott Mexico City - the largest Courtyard property within the CALA region. Most recently, he was General Manager of Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, and remains Area General Manager for Marriott properties in Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita, and Guadalajara.

"During my years with Marriott, I've really cultivated a passion for this part of the world," said Gauna. "W Punta de Mita is an incredible property that uniquely tells the story of the Nayarit region through its design, food & beverage, programming, and events. I'm excited to join W Punta de Mita's talented team, which constantly goes above and beyond to maintain the resort's stellar reputation as a leading destination-focused, luxury escape for travelers in Nayarit.