Kari Tarnowski Rejoins Elite Island Resorts as Chief Commercial Officer

Image: Hammock Cove Antigua, an Elite Island Resort. (photo courtesy of Elite Island Resorts)
Image: Hammock Cove Antigua, an Elite Island Resort. (photo courtesy of Elite Island Resorts)
Laurie Baratti
by Laurie Baratti
Last updated: 6:00 AM ET, Mon June 30, 2025

Elite Island Resorts, a prominent name in Caribbean all-inclusive vacations, has announced the return of Kari Tarnowski as their new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Tarnowski, a seasoned marketing professional, previously served as the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, and her comeback to the brand is seen as a major boost for the resort group’s growth plans.

In this freshly created role, Tarnowski will be responsible for guiding the North American marketing, sales, revenue management and communications strategies across Elite’s portfolio. The company operates seven acclaimed resorts spread across Antigua, Barbados and Panama, making it one of the region’s standout hospitality brands.

With over 25 years of experience in hospitality marketing and brand leadership, Tarnowski brings a wealth of expertise and a forward-thinking vision. Her past work includes leadership positions at notable companies such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Sandals Resorts, and most recently, she played a key role in the relaunch of Victory Cruise Lines.

Kari Tarnowski, Elite Island Resort's new Chief Commercial Officer.

Kari Tarnowski, Elite Island Resort's new Chief Commercial Officer. (Photo Credit: Elite Island Resorts)

“We are very excited about Kari’s return to the Caribbean and our executive leadership team,” remarked Larry Basham, Chief Operating Officer of Elite Island Resorts. “Kari’s depth of commercial expertise and outstanding reputation are a perfect fit as we continue to elevate Elite’s position as a leader in Caribbean hospitality.”

For Tarnowski, the role holds a special personal significance. “Elite Island Resorts and the island of Antigua are synonymous, and have always held a special place in my career,” she said. “I look forward to re-joining this talented team to carry out Elite’s vision and continue building upon the legacy of founder Sir Robert A. Barrett.”

Her return is also warmly welcomed by local tourism officials. Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, commented, “We are delighted to welcome Kari Tarnowski back to the Caribbean and congratulate her on her new role as Chief Commercial Officer. Kari has long been an enthusiast of our twin-island nation, and her return feels like welcoming back a dear friend. We are excited to continue building on the strong partnership we share with Elite, and we look forward to working hand-in-hand with Kari to further showcase the warmth, beauty, and unforgettable experiences of Antigua and Barbuda.”


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Laurie Baratti

Laurie Baratti

Assistant Editor

Laurie Baratti is an Assistant Editor for TravelPulse. She is a San Diego-based journalist whose work has previously appeared in publications like TravelAge West, SPACE, Modern Home + Living, Montage, and Sandals Life magazines. Travel writing has long been her passion, and she is always looking for excuses to explore the world outside of her native California. Laurie is also a lifelong equestrian, a proud pet-parent, and an underground advocate of the Oxford comma.

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