Her Story
About Andrea
Andrea Christian is a seasoned hospitality professional with more than 17 years of experience in luxury resorts and destination group sales on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. Currently serving as Senior Director of Group Sales at Sonesta International Hotels, she specializes in corporate group business, helping organizations plan meetings, conferences, and incentive programs in one of the world's most sought-after destinations. Her career began in 2009 as a front desk agent, and through dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence, she steadily advanced through operations, reservations, finance, event management, and sales leadership roles. Throughout her career, Andrea has built a reputation for honesty, transparency, and exceptional client service. Her operational background gives her a unique perspective in sales, allowing her to align client expectations with what can realistically be delivered. She is known amongst her colleagues for her philosophy of under-promising and over-delivering, ensuring that every event and group experience exceeds expectations. A pivotal moment in her career came when she joined the reopening effort of the former St. Regis Princeville Resort property, helping transition it into what became 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. As one of the first team members rehired during the property's extensive renovation, she played an instrumental role in bringing the resort back to market and considers the successful reopening one of her proudest professional accomplishments. Beyond her professional achievements, Andrea is an empathetic leader who values mentorship, teamwork, and personal growth. She credits much of her success to the mentors and leaders who guided her throughout her career and encourages aspiring hospitality professionals to step outside their comfort zones to become well-rounded industry experts. A devoted mother of four children, she balances a demanding career with family life, often joking that her children's interests have become her own. Deeply connected to her local community, she also supports charitable initiatives such as the Kauai Visitors Charity Walk, which raises funds for organizations serving the people of Kauai. Through her leadership, integrity, and passion for hospitality, Andrea continues to make a meaningful impact on both her clients and her community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Andrea
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the values instilled in me from an early age. Growing up in a disciplined household taught me the importance of hard work, accountability, and perseverance. Those foundational principles shaped my work ethic and continue to guide my approach to both personal and professional challenges. In addition, I have been fortunate to learn from exceptional mentors and leaders throughout my career whose guidance, knowledge, and support have played a significant role in my growth and success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to ask myself, “Am I running toward something or away from something?” It has helped me make more intentional career decisions. I strive to move toward opportunities that align with my goals, values, and growth rather than simply leaving situations that no longer serve me.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to stay curious and be open to trying different things. Take every opportunity to learn, seek new experiences, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The skills, confidence, and perspectives you gain from those experiences will benefit you throughout your career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe the biggest challenge is the current geopolitical climate and how the rest of the world is hesitant to do business with the U.S. at the moment. Corporations that are based internationally are concerned about the ethics and optics of bringing their groups to the U.S., which is completely understandable. On the opportunity side, for domestic business, I've really been leaning into the fact that our tropical destination will give attendees the feel of being in an exotic place, but offer the ease of traveling in the U.S. versus internationally.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and transparency are the most important values to me - there's a big misconception about salespeople, and that's something I always try to prove wrong. My philosophy with sales is to under-promise and over-deliver. Having an operational background helps me understand that as a salesperson, we should never be promising things that can't actually be achieved or that isn't reality. So honesty and transparency with my clients and my team are number one. I also value dedication and try to instill this in my kids. No matter what you're doing - if it's washing dishes, schoolwork, or work work, try your best; give it your all.
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