Hospitality sales leader brings more than 25 years of experience to destination resort

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2026) - Moody Gardens has named George Cantu as Director of Sales & Marketing for Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center. Cantu brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience, including sales and leadership positions with nationally recognized brands such as Marriott, Hilton, InterContinental, Choice and Wyndham, as well as independent hotels and resorts.
In his new role, Cantu will lead sales and business development for Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center. His extensive experience includes group and convention sales, corporate and government accounts, association groups, sports, social, military, educational, religious and fraternal groups, and strategic partnerships, with a career spanning urban, airport, resort and convention markets.
“After 26 years in the hospitality industry, I wanted my next chapter to be about being part of something bigger. That is what attracted me to Moody Gardens. It is so much more than a hotel - it is a destination with so many moving parts, from the hotel and more than 100,000 square feet of meeting and event space to the attractions, Aquarium, Rainforest, Golf, Spa and the many experiences that make Moody Gardens unique."
“With 433 guestrooms and the ability to host everything from corporate meetings and conventions to association events and social gatherings, Moody Gardens offers groups an experience they simply cannot get at a traditional hotel. I’m excited to bring my experience, relationships and passion for hospitality to Moody Gardens and work with our team to create memorable experiences while showing meeting planners everything Galveston and Moody Gardens have to offer,” Cantu said.
At Moody Gardens, Cantu will focus on growing hotel revenue, strengthening relationships throughout the Galveston and Houston communities, developing new business opportunities and positioning Moody Gardens as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, group travel and leisure.
“George brings extensive hospitality sales and marketing experience to Moody Gardens, along with a strong background in developing relationships and growing group business,” said John Zendt, Moody Gardens President and CEO. “His industry knowledge and leadership will elevate our team as we continue to grow and build on what makes Moody Gardens a destination unlike any other.”
For more information, call 409-744-4673 or visit moodygardens.org.
Moody Gardens is a public, non-profit educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.
Explore the pyramids, stay at the hotel, and see what is happening on Galveston Island.