Former professional hockey player Denis Herron has been appointed international sales manager at the four-star-rated Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, St. Maarten.

Based in West Palm Beach, Florida, but traveling to St. Maarten often, Heron will be responsible for working with tour operators and travel agents in Canada, the US, France, and South America. He will also represent the resort at trade shows in North America and France.

Prior to joining the Westin, Herron worked with Radisson Aruba and then the Radisson Blu in St. Martin. 

Before pursuing a career in the hospitality industry, Herron played professional hockey in the National Hockey League for 14 years as a goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens. He won the Vezina Trophy and the Jennings Trophy – both of which are award to the top goaltender in the league. 

A regular hotel guest while playing hockey, Herron experienced a variety of brands during his sports career, which honed his eye and gave him a feel for what makes a great hotel and resort experience. Making the transition to the travel industry a natural next step for Herron.

“I approach my job from a guest’s point of view, and that has been key to my success,” said Herron.

Herron has been married to his wife, Debbie, for more than 41 years. They have two daughters, who are both married, as well as two grandchildren. Herron enjoys photography, kayaking, and fishing and is an outdoor enthusiast, so his time in Florida and at Westin St. Maarten gives him the opportunity to pursue his hobbies.

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