Former state of Hawaii Tourism Liaison Marsha Wienert is the new regional director of public relations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii.

Responsible for all aspects of public relations, including development and implementation of campaigns, crisis communication and public affairs, Wienert will focus on the Sheraton, Westin, Luxury Collection and St. Regis brands that do business in Hawaii.

“Anyone who knows her understands that despite her diminutive stature Marsha is a marketing giant,” said Keith Vieira, senior vice president and director of operations for Starwood in Hawaii and French Polynesia, in a statement. “We are excited to have her working with us.”

Wienert served in the cabinet of former Gov. Linda Lingle for seven and a half years, and was previously executive director of the Maui Visitors Bureau. She will report to Angela Vento, regional director of sales and marketing for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. in Hawaii and French Polynesia.