Dart announced on 11 September 2026 the appointment of Joanne Lawson as chief executive officer of the group, effective immediately. She succeeds Mark VanDevelde, who had held the role since 2008 and becomes executive director and chairman of the board, where he will now focus on the broader strategic priorities of the group’s international interests.
Governance built for the long term
In a statement, Mark VanDevelde described the transition as a natural evolution rather than a break. He said the strongest organisations prepare intentionally for the future, and that this transition represented a natural evolution for the company and its governance, adding that while his role was changing, his commitment to Dart remained undiminished.
He praised his successor’s career, describing her as a key contributor to decisions that had shaped the group’s trajectory. He said Lawson had been an essential part of Dart’s success, that her career illustrated what becomes possible when talent, dedication and opportunity meet, and that he had complete confidence in her ability to lead Dart into its next chapter.
Mark VanDevelde has worked with founder Ken Dart and his family for more than thirty years, having supported the group’s growth and organisational development in the Cayman Islands and beyond. As chairman of the board, he will continue to provide strategic direction and governance continuity, while supporting the board’s priorities across the group.
An internal career built over more than twenty years
A native of the Cayman Islands, Joanne Lawson has been promoted from her role as chief of staff and chief administrative officer. She joined Dart in 2003 as an executive assistant and has progressed steadily within the organisation, holding several leadership roles, notably in business development, property management and human resources.
Joanne Lawson said it was an immense privilege to be entrusted with this new responsibility. She has played a key role in rolling out strategic initiatives, strengthening organisational efficiency and shaping the group’s long-term vision.
She added that Dart had strong foundations, an exceptional team and a considerable opportunity to continue building the foundations of tomorrow through long-term investment and sustainable development. She said the group remained committed to supporting the future success of the Cayman Islands by investing in its people, its communities and initiatives that improve quality of life for current and future generations — including creating opportunities for Caymanians, developing local talent and preparing the next generation of leaders who will shape the islands’ future.
A group at the heart of Caribbean luxury hospitality
Dart is among the leading hotel owners in the Cayman Islands, with a portfolio that includes The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman and the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, as well as the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla. This new chapter in governance therefore comes at a time when the group’s decisions bear directly on the destination’s hospitality strategy. La Tribune de l’Hôtellerie previously reported on an appointment at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, one of the flagship properties in Dart’s portfolio.
A strong community footprint
Beyond her leadership role at Dart, Joanne Lawson chaired the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce between 2024 and 2025, driving initiatives in support of education, economic opportunity and long-term prosperity across the archipelago. She also continues her community involvement on the boards of Cayman Airways and Code(Cayman), a non-profit organisation providing free technology and digital skills training to young people and adults in the Cayman Islands.
At a glance by The Hospitality Tribune
Dart appoints Joanne Lawson as chief executive officer
Effective immediately, announced 11 September 2026
Succeeds Mark VanDevelde (CEO since 2008), now executive director and chairman of the board
Promoted internally from chief of staff and chief administrative officer
Joined Dart in 2003 as an executive assistant; Caymanian national
Dart’s hospitality portfolio includes The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman and Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
