The Arizona Biltmore has appointed a new catering management team bringing more than 30 years of experience to the landmark resort.

The new director of catering is Karen Doan, who comes to the resort with a background in professional catering experience in the upscale market that spans two decades, including a previous stint at the Arizona Biltmore as catering manager for eight years.

The new assistant director of catering is Stacey Shapiro, who has been the Arizona Biltmore’s senior catering sales manager since 2005.

For the past 10 years, Doan has operated her own highly regarded event planning company, Karen Doan Events, LLC, located in Scottsdale, where her commitment and involvement in every detail of every event has earned her a reputation as one of the premier and most popular event planners in Arizona.

Ms. Shapiro started her hospitality career in California with Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport in 1998 as a meeting concierge, and was later promoted to assistant banquet manager. In 2003, she joined the catering department at the Arizona Biltmore as catering sales manager then became senior catering sales manager two years later.

The new catering team has assumed responsibility for one of the largest resort catering operations in Arizona, handling numerous social events, galas, weddings and other events year-round.

“I treat every event as a work of art, where fresh ideas, distinct style, and seamless execution are vital elements of the process,” said Doan “This is joyous work,” she added, “because it is a true partnership of many professionals who bring the event to life in the most creative, respectful and enduring way.”

The Arizona Biltmore has been an Arizona landmark since opening in 1929, when it was crowned the “Jewel of the Desert.” The legendary Grand Dame remains one of the most recognized resorts in the world for its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright architectural style, luxurious facilities, and storied history as a playground of the rich and famous. Nestled on 39 acres at the foot of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the legendary resort offers: 740 guest accommodations; full-service Spa, Salon and Fitness Center; two 18-hole golf courses; six restaurants and lounges including Wright’s at The Biltmore, preparing classic dishes updated with today’s culinary perspective, and Frank & Albert’s serving Arizona comfort food; eight swimming pools including the Paradise Pool with a 90-foot waterslide and swim-up bar; and seven tennis courts. The Arizona Biltmore is a Waldorf Astoria Resort.

For more information and reservations call 1-800-950-0086.

Find out more about Arizona Biltmore at their website at arizonabiltmore.com.