Women continue to shape the hospitality landscape, lending their insight and leadership to an ever-changing industry. We spoke with four women leaders within the industry who shared their unique career journeys with us:
Summer Shoemaker, general manager, San Diego Mission Bay Resort (San Diego)
What does it mean to you to be a female leader in the hospitality industry?
It is a privilege to serve as a female leader within an industry that has historically relied upon the invaluable contributions of women across all levels of operation. Until recently, very few women could be seen in prominent positions, so I am proud to continue inspiring forthcoming female leaders in the hospitality industry.
What has your career journey looked like getting to where you are in the hospitality industry now?
Originally, I was never interested in being a general manager, so I instead took a fairly non-conventional career path for a GM by pursuing conferences and events. Fast forward two decades, I can now recognize that my time in events exposed and challenged me in all levels of hotel operations, setting me up for continued success in my current role as general manager at San Diego Mission Bay Resort. With lots of encouragement and support from mentors and peers along the way, I can efficiently lead a hotel operation and engage forward-thinking teams with strategy, creativity and positive problem-solving.
Alissa O’Briant, director, sales and marketing, Bernardus Lodge & Spa (Carmel Valley, CA)
What has your career journey looked like getting to where you are in the hospitality industry now?
My career journey in the hospitality industry has been shaped by passion, perseverance and continuous learning. Starting from entry-level positions, I worked my way up through various roles honing my skills in customer service, operations management, marketing, sales and event planning. Through hard work, dedication and seizing every opportunity for growth, I steadily progressed into more senior roles, ultimately reaching a leadership position where I am able to inspire and empower others and leverage my experience to contribute to the success of my team and my property.
Sheri Morgan Muskin, general manager, Miraval Austin Resort & Spa (Austin)
What does it mean to you to be a female leader in the hospitality industry?
Being a female leader in the hospitality industry allows me to lead with love, compassion, humility and empathy and, more importantly, model these values to my colleagues and teams. I am grateful to be in an industry where authentic connections are sought, welcomed and celebrated because when my team is empowered to lead with care, it resonates with guests on a profound level.
What has your career journey looked like getting to where you are in the hospitality industry now?
My father’s wise words, “Do what makes you happy and brings you joy,” have shaped my 30-year career journey. I’ve learned to say no to opportunities in an industry that values saying yes, prioritizing happiness and joy in my work. Now, I share this wisdom with my teams and guests every day, helping them find their own sources of joy and live with intention.
Agnes Hayes, general manager, The Whitney Hotel (Boston)
What does it mean to you to be a female leader in the hospitality industry?
Being a female leader in the hospitality industry means inspiring others, breaking barriers and shaping a future where everyone thrives. Equally, it’s about leveraging my unique perspective, empathy, passion and resilience to create inclusive, mentoring environments where success is found by paving the way for others to grow into the next generation of leadership to make their mark on our guests, the industry and our world.
What has your career journey looked like getting to where you are in the hospitality industry now?
My journey has been a testament to relentless effort, determination and unwavering passion for the industry. Countless late nights, early mornings and perpetual challenges have only fueled my drive and enhanced my sense of humor. From starting at the beginning thirty years ago and learning every aspect of the business to raising my two children now grown, I’ve embraced every opportunity in life to develop, to innovate and to lead (or parent) from a place of love and integrity. Each step, I’ve remained committed to excellence, always striving to exceed expectations and inspire those around me.
