Sun Wong
Principal
C.M. Marketing Solutions LLC

Sun Wong is a Mentor Hawaii Cohort 10 mentor. Learn more about the program here.

About Sun

Sun Wong is a dynamic marketing executive and Principal of C.M. Marketing Solutions LLC, where she delivers innovative, data-driven strategies to help businesses thrive in the competitive travel, tourism and health care industries. Sun is celebrated for her expertise in strategic marketing, digital transformation, analytics, P&L management, and hospitality asset management.

Born in Seoul, Korea, and raised in Riyadh and Rome, Sun’s global perspective took root early. She found her passion in Hawai‘i, where she arrived on a scholarship to Hawai‘i Pacific University in 1993 and has called home ever since. Starting as a hotel housekeeper, Sun worked her way up, eventually becoming Vice President of Marketing & Guest Acquisition at Outrigger Hospitality Group. There, she led groundbreaking initiatives, including the $93 million launch of Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk.

Sun has also been recognized with accolades such as Pacific Business News’ “40 Under 40” and Women Who Mean Business awards. Her leadership extends to community involvement, serving on the boards of the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau and the Oahu Visitors Bureau, among others.

A firm believer in the importance of culture, Sun prioritizes creating immersive experiences that reflect the spirit of each destination. She’s also a dedicated mentor, fostering a safe space for her team to innovate and grow. For Sun, her work is a labor of love, grounded in her deep connection to Hawai‘i and her commitment to sharing its unique beauty with the world.

Question and Answer with Sun

What is your preferred communication style when mentoring (in-person, video conference, phone, informal check-ins, structured meetings, etc.)?
Video-Conference, Phone, Informal Check-In, Meal, In-Person Meeting, Activity, Structured Meeting

Why do you want to become a mentor in this program?
I’ve personally experienced the transformative impact of mentorship, both as a mentor and a mentee. Navigating life after college or graduate school can feel disorienting and isolating, and having someone to act as a coach, resource, sounding board, and cheerleader can make that transition more manageable and fulfilling.

I firmly believe in the principle that our success is amplified when we help others succeed. Mentorship is an opportunity to give back and help guide others on their journey, providing the support and insights I’ve been fortunate to receive.

What specific skills, knowledge or experience can you share with your mentee?

I can share the following skills, knowledge, and experience with my mentee:

  • Strategic Planning: Expertise in sales, marketing, and digital transformation to navigate competitive industries.
  • Performance Analytics: Experience using data to drive decisions and optimize ROI across channels.
  • Negotiation and Leadership: Proven ability to manage partnerships, contracts, and team dynamics effectively.
  • Global Perspective: Insights from managing $550M+ portfolios across diverse markets worldwide.
  • Personal Growth: Guidance in leadership development, confidence-building, and career progression.

 

What are your expectations for a mentor-mentee relationship?

I envision a mentor-mentee relationship built on mutual trust, open communication, and a shared commitment to growth. My expectations include:

  • Clear Goals: Establishing objectives early on to guide our conversations and measure progress.
  • Open Dialogue: Creating a safe space for honest discussions, feedback, and brainstorming.
  • Active Participation: A collaborative effort where both mentor and mentee bring their perspectives and ideas.
  • Accountability: Encouraging follow-through on action plans and providing support to navigate challenges.
  • Adaptability: Being flexible to adjust our approach based on the mentee’s evolving needs and aspirations.

I aim to foster a relationship that inspires confidence and provides actionable guidance for personal and professional development.

How do you approach problem-solving and conflict resolution?

My goal is to transform challenges into opportunities and build stronger relationships through the resolution process.

  • Assess the Situation
  • Collaborative Solutions
  • Open Communication
  • Once a solution is identified, I implement it decisively and follow up to ensure the desired outcomes are achieved.

How do you envision success for your mentee, and how will you measure it during the program?
Ultimately, success is about empowering my mentee to leave the program with the tools, knowledge, and mindset to navigate their career with clarity and purpose.

I envision success for my mentee as a combination of personal growth, skill development, and achieving their specific goals during the program. To measure this success, I would:

  • Set Clear Goals: Work with my mentee to define actionable objectives at the beginning of the program.
  • Track Progress: Regularly review milestones and achievements, ensuring alignment with their aspirations.
  • Foster Confidence: Observe their growing confidence and ability to tackle challenges independently.
  • Feedback and Reflection: Encourage honest feedback and self-reflection to celebrate wins and identify areas for continued improvement.