Doral Golf Resort & Spa, a Marriott Resort, has appointed Chris Bracken as director of sales and marketing. With nearly 30 years of hospitality experience, Bracken will be responsible for developing resort-wide sales and marketing strategies for both the leisure and group segments and maintaining the highest levels of guest and associate satisfaction. Bracken joins the legendary resort at an exciting time as the property is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2012.

“I am excited and honored to become a member of the team here at the distinguished Doral Golf Resort & Spa,” said Bracken. “With 50 years of history, Doral is a landmark in the South Florida community and we are eager to showcase the resort’s newest additions – from golf to dining and spa.”

Doral Golf Resort & Spa, a Marriott Resort, completed a $16 million resort-wide renewal in advance of the anniversary celebration, including the openings of The Jim McLean Signature golf course, the new Latin-inspired steakhouse Mesazul and the Bossa Nova lobby bar as well as a redesign to the award-winning Spa at Doral, partnering with the Pritikin Longevity Center & Spa.

Bracken most recently served as director of sales and marketing for the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club in Redondo Beach, CA. Prior to his move to the West Coast, Bracken worked extensively around the Sunshine State in various sales and marketing positions – from vice president for Visit Jacksonville to the Don CeSar Beach Resort in St. Petersburg and the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra. While at Sawgrass, Bracken liaised closely with the PGA Tour during the annual PLAYERS Championship golf tournament – experience that will come in handy at Doral, home of the PGA Tour in Miami for the past 50 years, most recently with the WGC – Cadillac Championship.

Doral Golf Resort & Spa, www.doralresort.com