Wildbirch Hotel Appoints Carissa Giliam General Manager

The Anchorage property selected its former director of sales to lead daily operations and strategy.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Hotels

Bold vector editorial illustration of a modern hotel facade with cool, crisp architectural lines, representing an urban hospitality appointment. — Carissa Giliam has been appointed as the new general manager of the Wildbirch Hotel in downtown Anchorage following her interim tenure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Wildbirch Hotel in downtown Anchorage has appointed Carissa Giliam as its new general manager. Giliam transitions to the permanent role after previously serving as the hotel's interim general manager.

Why it matters

Giliam brings extensive local hospitality experience to the 252-room property in the Mushing District. Her leadership is expected to encompass commercial strategy, food and beverage, and team development for the hotel.

The Wildbirch Hotel maintains a total of 252 rooms in the Mushing District of downtown Anchorage. Giliam previously spent five years managing the Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown and one year at the Anchorage Museum.

The players

Carissa Giliam

She is the newly appointed general manager of The Wildbirch Hotel and serves on the boards of Visit Anchorage and the Anchorage Downtown Partnership.

The Wildbirch Hotel

This is a 252-room lodging property located within the Mushing District of downtown Anchorage.

The details

Giliam takes the helm following a career that includes time as the opening general manager of the Aloft Anchorage and general manager at the Hilton Anchorage. She currently contributes to the local tourism economy as a board member for Visit Anchorage and the Anchorage Downtown Partnership.

August 2025: Giliam began her tenure as director of sales and commercial affairs at the hotel.

Travel Outlook

This leadership transition aligns with the industry pattern of tapping veterans with deep local institutional ties to manage downtown properties. Such appointments are critical for maintaining continuity in Anchorage's competitive hospitality sector during peak and shoulder travel seasons.

Guests staying at The Wildbirch Hotel can expect continuity in service levels given Giliam's prior time as the hotel's interim leader. The appointment has no immediate impact on room rates or current booking policies for travelers visiting the Mushing District.

The takeaway

Appointing a local leader with deep ties to regional boards helps ensure the hotel remains integrated with the downtown Anchorage business community. Travelers looking for consistent service in the Mushing District can anticipate stability as the hotel executes its current commercial strategy.