Tulalip resort hires general manager, national sales manager for hotel

TULALIP — The Tulalip Resort Casino has appointed Samuel B. Askew as general manager of their "four-diamond" luxury hotel.

TULALIP — The Tulalip Resort Casino has appointed Samuel B. Askew as general manager of their “four-diamond” luxury hotel.

Askew brings more than 11 years of hospitality experience and advanced training from numerous properties to his position.

“Sam’s extensive experience and knowledge in managing luxury properties, combined with his award-winning leadership, make him a valuable asset to the Tulalip Resort Casino,” said Ken Kettler, president and COO of the Tulalip Resort Casino. “His passion for hospitality will be instrumental in continuing our extraordinary guest services at the resort.”

Prior to joining the Tulalip Resort Casino, the largest tribal property in the state, Askew worked for Port Madison Enterprises as hotel director at the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort.

He has also been director of operations at the Alderbrook Resort & Spa, and held top positions at other notable Pacific Northwest destinations, including Little Creek Casino Resort and Riverhouse Resort.

In 2010, Askew was named Washington State General Manager of the Year by the Washington Lodging Association, and Innkeeper of the Year by the Kitsap Peninsula Visitor and Convention Bureau.

He studied at Northern Arizona University’s Hospitality School, where he majored in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

With a devotion to tribal tourism development, Askew has served as co-chair of Northwest Tribal Tourism, a premier organization that encourages traveling in Washington Indian Country.

He will be joined by Linda M. Botts, who will be serving as national sales manager of the hotel.

Botts brings 12 years of hospitality sales experience to her new position, which includes a previous role with Clipper Vacations as the assistant vice president of sales.

Her Tulalip responsibilities include developing new group business, managing corporate accounts and business travel.

A native of London, Botts earned History and Theology degrees from Bromley Technical College.

She has served as president of Skål International Seattle — a club for top travel, tourism and hospitality experts — and is currently a member of Meeting Professionals International.

Botts prides herself on being an active community member, dedicating her time to local organizations including the Ronald McDonald House and Union Gospel Mission.

“We are delighted to welcome Linda to our team,” Kettler said. “Her experience in management and hospitality sales will be instrumental as we continue to provide groups with a distinctive, luxurious and memorable destination experiences.”