Team of Experts

Sean Kim

Director of Commecial Services

In Sean's 17-year Hyatt journey, five of them have been at the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas.  "The transformation has been incredible—from the welcoming arrival to the stunning mountain views. But what truly makes it special is our amazing team."

Maiya Kiest

Director of Events

After graduating college in McMinnville, Oregon, Maiya moved to Southern California. She has spent her entire 17-year Hyatt career at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells. "I love working at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells . It's not only my place of work, it's my home and our colleagues are family."

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Kendra White

Senior Event Planning Manager

Kendra began her Hyatt career at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells in 2015, she quickly moved into Events and now enjoys creating memories for her groups as a Senior Event Planning Manager.  “We are 'home away from home' for our meeting planners and event attendees, and building that bond is super special for both myself and the entire hotel team!”

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Charlsie Shaver

Event Planning Manager

Charlsie started her career with Grand Hyatt Indian Wells in March of 2022 and she thrives on making extraordinary events come to life. “I love having such a supportive and strong team. Being able to have an amazing team to collaborate with everyday makes for a really positive environment.”

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Christy Henderson

Event Planning Manager

Christy joined the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells events team in 2024, bringing with her extensive experience in the hospitality industry. As a long-time resident of the Coachella Valley, she values the region's stunning natural beauty and pleasant climate, remarking, "I encourage everyone to consider hosting their event here at the Grand Hyatt; your attendees will truly appreciate it."

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Wenddy Cobian

Event Sales Manager

Wenddy, joined the sales team at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells in 2021. She appreciates the creative side to event planning and is excited to bring events to life! “My Favorite part of working at this beautiful resort is the amazing one-of-a-kind events we see here.”

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Melissa Perez

Wedding & Event Planning Manager

Melissa became part of the Hyatt family in April of 2022 and is now enjoying the opportunity to plan special moments for our guests. “My favorite moment is taking a second to stand back to watch the event our team worked so hard on, come to life. Seeing our clients enjoy a cocktail in one of our outdoor venues, under the pink desert sunset, is true bliss.”

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Jeanette Alvarado

Event Concierge

Jeanette has been a part of Grand Hyatt Indian Wells as of July 2022. She enjoys supporting the Events team to help them execute unforgettable events. “ love seeing all the events flourish to life and our guests thrilled over the beautiful resort while enjoying the breathtaking views. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!”

Courtney Halterlein

Event Coordinator

Courtney joined the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas team in 2023."I think the natural beauty of the Coachella Valley, combined with the beauty of our resort makes this the perfect place to host an event".

Evan Smith

Event Services Manager

Evan has been with Hyatt for almost 5 years & joined Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas in January 2024. “Working at this breathtaking property is such an honor and I’m excited to see how the Banquet Team can transform along with it.”

Andrew Salazar

Banquet Chef

Andrew is originally from Colorado; he has been with Hyatt since 2012 & joined the team at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas in 2022. "I enjoy working with the team creating a collaborative atmosphere & shared passion for delicious culinary experiences"

Donavon Zengler

Encore Audio Visual Sales Manager

Donavon began his hotel career in 1999.  By 2004 he started his role in AV, not realizing that he would love it so much.  From meeting new clients, to planning their programs, to executing the events, this is his passion.  “I have worked at a few properties, and the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells is by far my home away from home.  From my team to our Hotel Partners, it genuinely feels like a family atmosphere, and we are all here with the same goal in mind.”

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