The new position, recently filled by Jed Inductivo, will oversee the resort’s social spaces and programming geared toward attracting visitors as well as Hawaii locals.
“It was important that we had a focus and vision for creating unique experiences for our customers utilizing our really great, special and unique social spaces,” said Kelly Sanders, vice president of operations, Hawaii for Highgate, Alohilani’s parent company.
“Alohilani created a contemporary, sophisticated resort, something we felt is or has been missing from the market. Our demographics of customers will skew to the 40s, 30s maybe even late 20s, and someone who is looking for something experiential in nature, not just another hotel bar or pool.”
Inductivo, originally from New York City, worked his way up in the food and beverage industry from barback to manager, has experience in nightclubs and fine dining, and previously worked on the Sheraton Waikiki’s RumFire and Nobu Waikiki.
He’ll collaborate with Alohilani staff, including chef executive David Lukela and general manager Matthew Grauso, on menus and programs, with plans to transition venues from daytime to night in fare and mood, with different dishes and music offered depending on the hour.
“The rooftop pool deck is like nothing else you’ll see in Honolulu — maybe it’s like Miami or possibly Vegas,” Inductivo said. “With the Swell bar and pool deck it’s something you see and are in awe of, and the O bar is where the oceanarium sits and it’s this cool contemporary lobby bar, not your traditional lobby bar.”
There are plans for more nightlife events, including DJs and live bands.
“There will is always be something happening with entertainment, a mix of DJs with a contemporary vibe that will also pay homage to Hawaii culture,” Inductivo said. “I’d like for both venues to have a synergy off each other, where people will go in between the two like two rooms at a nightclub.”
Inductivo is bringing some elements of the more established nightlife scene, like New York or Las Vegas, but has learned that you still have to incorporate the Hawaii vibe.
“When I first moved here, I thought what work at mainland companies and elsewhere would work here, but I had to learn this market,” Inductivo said. “In Vegas, people might stand in a long line at a nightclub and maybe they don’t treat you so well. It feels like a cattle call to wait for bottle service. That whole scene doesn’t work here. You have to be cool, and gracious and show aloha.”
At O Bar, he would like to introduce a new craft cocktail program, including a collection of select liquors and special twists on classic drinks. They are also looking at other creative ways of using their social spaces, such as fashion shows.
“A lot of people are super interested in partnering with us on retail experiences at Swell,” Sanders said. “We want to do contemporary, sophisticated, elevated experiences. Events like swimsuit shows and different things at the pool.”