OWA Parks & Resort has appointed Ken Leone as its new property manager. Leone brings decades of experience in hospitality management, property development, and operational leadership to the growing destination.
Leone, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and senior hospitality executive, has led a number of nationally recognized developments over his career. His hiring marks what OWA leaders describe as a new chapter of growth and innovation for the resort.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ken to the OWA family,” said Cody Williamson, president/CEO of Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority and a Poarch Creek Tribal Citizen.
“His deep industry expertise and visionary leadership will play a key role in elevating our guest experiences at the property and driving the next phase of strategic growth for OWA.”
Leone most recently served as managing director of OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, an entertainment destination owned by the Chickasaw Nation in Oklahoma City.
He led the project from construction through its 2025 opening, overseeing a multimillion-dollar development that included a 100,000-square-foot water park, 15 restaurants and 30,000 square feet of meeting space.
Leone’s experience includes developing award-winning Margaritaville and Westin properties, leading operations at Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants, and driving growth and acquisitions for Delaware North.
One of the Margaritaville hotels he managed was named USA Today’s Best New Hotel in 2018, and the Westin Buffalo was recognized by Marriott as Best Full-Service Hotel in 2019.
According to the company, Leone’s leadership is expected to support OWA’s mission of enhancing guest experiences and driving strategic growth across its entertainment, lodging, and dining offerings.
“OWA represents a rare opportunity to blend innovation and guest-focused service into something truly extraordinary,” Leone said. “My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place, by empowering our teams, enhancing the guest experience, and driving long-term value through strategic growth and operational excellence.”
OWA Parks & Resort is a 520-acre destination owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. The resort features Tropic Falls at OWA, the region’s largest indoor water park, a 23-ride theme park, and Downtown OWA, a pedestrian streetscape offering shopping, dining, and year-round events. On-site accommodations include TownePlace Suites by Marriott and Tropic Hideaway RV Resort.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
