Managing Risk in Vacation Ownership: A Conversation with Angela Cabado of Marriott Vacations Worldwide

In this episode of The Claim Hunter, host Chris Tidball speaks with Angela Cabado, Director of Risk Management at Marriott Vacations Worldwide, to explore the complex world of claims and risk mitigation in the vacation ownership industry. Angela shares her journey from claims adjuster to risk management leader and offers critical insights on fraud detection, litigation trends, and managing unpredictable claims across global vacation destinations. This episode delivers expert strategies for claims professionals navigating high-risk, customer-facing environments.

Data-Driven Risk Management in a High-Stakes Industry

Angela’s career started in workers' compensation claims, where she learned firsthand the value of a thorough and proactive approach. That background shaped her philosophy at Marriott Vacations Worldwide, where risk management requires anticipating the unexpected—from soaring medical costs to bizarre guest-related claims. Angela emphasizes the need for data-informed decisions, especially as litigation grows more aggressive and billing practices shift across jurisdictions.

One standout challenge is medical inflation. Angela explains how her team uses analytics to identify high-billing regions and better support associates, reducing the likelihood of legal escalation. Collaboration—both within Marriott and across risk management departments—plays a key role in identifying red flags early.

Angela also discusses international differences in claims processing, noting how U.S.-based litigation practices contrast with the more streamlined, resolution-focused approaches seen in locations like Bora Bora. She stresses the importance of fraud awareness and encourages professionals to stay engaged with evolving trends—especially as generational attitudes toward claims and litigation continue to shift. Through local association involvement and continuous learning, Angela models a proactive and adaptable approach to risk leadership.

About Angela Cabado

Angela Cabado is the Director of Risk Management at Marriott Vacations Worldwide. With a foundation in claims adjustment and years of experience in vacation ownership risk, she leads data-informed strategies to address everything from fraud to unpredictable guest claims.

About Marriott Vacations Worldwide

Marriott Vacations Worldwide is a leading global vacation ownership company with a portfolio of premium resorts across the U.S. and internationally. The company is committed to providing unforgettable vacation experiences while maintaining rigorous standards in safety, service, and risk management.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Angela Cabado – LinkedIn

• Marriott Vacations Worldwide – Website

Conclusion

Angela Cabado’s insights reveal how successful risk management in the vacation ownership space requires vigilance, data fluency, and cross-functional collaboration. Her experience underscores the vital role of leadership in navigating the industry's evolving legal, financial, and operational risks.

Key Episode Highlights

• Medical Cost Inflation: Using jurisdictional data to manage billing trends and reduce claims volatility

• Unusual Claims: How to prepare for and manage one-of-a-kind incidents in vacation destinations

• Fraud Detection: Data-backed tactics to spot and address fraudulent claims early

• Litigation Culture: Comparing U.S. legal norms to global claims strategies

• Generational Influence: How age-based perspectives affect juror decisions and claims resolution

To explore more strategies for smarter claims management, visit ChrisTidball.com.
If you're an expert with actionable insights to share, apply to be a guest on The Claim Hunter podcast.