LONG BRANCH, NJ (April 1, 2019) – Wave Hospitality, LLC is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Julian Payne to the position of General Manager of the soon-to-open Wave Resort at Pier Village. Payne brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience at various top-tier properties with him, including Pier Village’s own Bungalow Hotel where he currently serves as the General Manager. In this larger role, Julian will oversee the day-to-day operations, guest and employee satisfaction, human resources, and overall financial performance for both Bungalow Hotel and the new modern beachfront property, Wave Resort.
“We are elated to have Julian expand his Long Branch portfolio as we open Wave Resort to the community and visitors alike,” says Robert Dunic, Head of Hospitality Operations. “His extensive relationships within the Long Branch neighborhood, with Pier Village’s revitalization, and experience in various sectors of the hotel industry will provide extraordinary value to the success of the property during its opening period and continued growth thereafter.”
Born into a family of hoteliers, Payne was groomed for a life in hospitality from the start. After working in several luxury boutique hotels throughout Europe, Julian held managing roles at The Ritz London, as well as Mandarin Oriental properties in both London and Hong Kong. Payne has a thorough understanding of hotel operations through a variety of roles, a strong background in planning and management, and significant hospitality experience within the New Jersey market. Wave Resort will open its doors under his skilled guidance and strategic vision, while Bungalow Hotel will continue to thrive as a boutique property.