FIONA AYERS
52 Fairway Circle, Connolly,WA
Summary
Accomplished hospitality developer/operator with progressive industry background and decisive leadership style. Passionate and adept with more than 25 years of experience focused on providing unparalleled guest satisfaction, optimizing hotel operations and motivating employees while establishing market dominance. Skilled in problem-solving and communication, with solid understanding of business principles, project management and team leadership. Collaborative and highly driven work ethic.
Offers strategic planning abilities and a forward-thinking mindset. Now seeking opportunities that align with a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences while embracing the flexibility of a digital nomad lifestyle. Ready to bring a dynamic blend of traditional hospitality values and tech-savvy innovation to a forward-thinking hospitality environment.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice-President, Hospitality Operations
Debut Development Group / HHG Companies
01.2016 - 11.2023
- Responsible for all pre-opening operational and strategic planning for Debut Development hospitality projects.
- Negotiated high-value contracts that maximized profitability while mitigating risks for the organization and its clients.
- Conducted comprehensive market research studies for new hotels and restaurants; tailoring offerings based on client needs analysis.
- Led cross-functional teams for the successful development and opening of new and renovated hotel projects.
- Developed key standard operating procedures designed for the effective and efficient day to day running of hotels and restaurants.
- Directed marketing strategies to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and grow market share.
- Managed financial planning and budgeting processes, ensuring fiscal responsibility and maximizing return on investments.
- Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders to promote collaboration and long-term success.
GENERAL MANAGER
POST RANCH INN
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed daily operations for smooth functioning of world-class boutique hotel, ensuring high-quality standards in all departments.
- Developed comprehensive budget plans, closely monitoring expenses and optimizing cost-saving opportunities resulting in 11% year over year increase in revenues, and a 3% decrease in expenses
- Media accolades included the Andrew Harper #1 US Hideaway, Travel & Leisure World's Best award (#13 in the world) Conde Nast Platinum Circle and Gold List, and the Wine Spectator Grand Award.
- Implemented strategic improvements to preventive maintenance programs, assuring optimal condition and functionality of hotel facilities and equipment.
- Fostered a positive work environment by promoting teamwork, open communication, and continuous employee development opportunities.
GENERAL MANAGER
CYPRESS INN
01.2010 - 01.2014
- Increased overall efficiency of historical boutique hotel by streamlining operations and implementing strategic improvements designed to capture increased market share.
- Re-branded entire food & beverage operation to expand our target market, resulting in #5 rating of 152 restaurants in destination.
- Designed and orchestrated extensive guest room renovation in 2013
- Restructured financial reporting for more effective expense management and a more accurate budgeting process
- Instrumental in leading Cypress Inn to be named Best Hotel on the Monterey Peninsula in 2012 (Monterey County Weekly)
- Fostered community relationships with leadership roles in organizations such as the Monterey County Hospitality Association and Executive Leadership Council of the Carmel Chamber of Commerce.
RESORT MANAGER (HYATT)
High Sierra Lodge, Piñon Pointe & Carmel Highlands
01.2005 - 01.2010
- Streamlined resort operations utilizing technology upgrades for increased efficiency and improved guest experiences.
- Led High Sierra Lodge to earn Hyatt Vacation Club's "Resort of the Year" award in 2006
- Selected to join pre-opening task force team of the prestigious Hyatt Grand Aspen in Aspen, Co
- Developed and managed departmental budgets and key guest programs to maximize profit while maintaining maximum customer satisfaction
- Orchestrated overall maintenance for resorts, including guest rooms and common areas; coordinated million-dollar guest room renovation at Highlands Inn.
Education
Bachelor of Science Dual Major in Travel & Tourism Administration and Spanish -
NIAGARA UNIVERSITY
Niagara Falls, NY05.1995
Level 5 Certificate (Distinction) - Teaching English As A Foreign Language
The TEFL Academy
Nottinghamshire, England, UK07.2020
Teaching Assistant -
CONRAD N. HILTON COLLEGE OF HOTEL AND RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT, UNIV. OF HOUSTON
Houston, TX01.2001
Skills
- Creating Extraordinary Guest Experiences
- Hotel Daily Operations, Pre & Post Opening
- Market Analysis and Feasibility Studies
- Project Management for Hotel Development or renovations
- Budgeting, Forecasting and Financial Analysis
- Risk Management and Mitigation
- Marketing, Branding and Positioning
- Leadership By Example
- Employee Mentoring and Development
- Adaptability and flexibility to embrace new trends and technologies
Professional Development
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM - currently studying)
- Positive, Progressive Discipline
- Workplace Ethics & Values
- Interactive Management
- Hyatt University "Service Plus" Training
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Full Professional
INTERESTS
Travel Blogging, Scuba Diving, Cultural Anthropology, Cooking
Timeline
Vice-President, Hospitality Operations
Debut Development Group / HHG Companies
01.2016 - 11.2023
GENERAL MANAGER
POST RANCH INN
01.2014 - 01.2015
GENERAL MANAGER
CYPRESS INN
01.2010 - 01.2014
RESORT MANAGER (HYATT)
High Sierra Lodge, Piñon Pointe & Carmel Highlands
01.2005 - 01.2010
Bachelor of Science Dual Major in Travel & Tourism Administration and Spanish -
NIAGARA UNIVERSITY
Level 5 Certificate (Distinction) - Teaching English As A Foreign Language
The TEFL Academy
Teaching Assistant -
CONRAD N. HILTON COLLEGE OF HOTEL AND RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT, UNIV. OF HOUSTON
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