Area Director of Sales & Marketing Appointed in Manhattan

Esther Barbosa, a hospitality professional with over 15 years’ experience in sales and marketing, has been appointed area director of sales & marketing for the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square South and The Hotel Alameda at the Highline.

Esther brings a deep understanding of both branded and independent hotels and a proven ability to drive strategic growth. She has held leadership positions at both the property and corporate levels, most recently as regional director of sales & marketing for Pestana Hotel Group, a leading Portuguese hospitality company. During her tenure, Esther played a pivotal role in the successful U.S. launch of Pestana Park Avenue and the Pestana CR7 Times Square Hotel — the group’s first partnership in the United States with global soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo.

Esther’s passion lies in leveraging data-driven strategy to optimize revenue and build dynamic, high-performing sales teams. Her background spans a range of prestigious brands, including Hilton, Radisson and United Airlines.

A native New Yorker, Esther earned her master’s degree in International Development and Economics from Nagoya University in Japan. Outside of work, she enjoys long-distance running, reading, traveling and spending time with her family.

“Congratulations to Esther on her new role,” said David Ruas, area general manager who oversees the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square South and Hotel Alameda at the Highline.  

“We are excited to see her bring her vision and energy to the team and have already seen the positive impact in the short time she has been with us. I am so happy to have such a well-rounded Area DOS selling for both Hilton Garden Inn and Hotel Alameda.”