What positions have you held at Extended Stay America and what has that timeline been?
I began my career at Extended Stay America in 1997 as a Guest Service Representative. After a year I was promoted to General Manager in Training, followed by four years as a General Manager. I then advanced to the position of Area Manager, then District Manager and have been serving as a Regional Manager for almost two years now.
What are you most proud of throughout your career?
As a leader, I find great joy in providing my team with the support and resources they need to thrive and achieve their goals. Witnessing the progression and development of my team members as they work towards reaching their highest potential is truly fulfilling for me. Seeing them grow and succeed not only brings happiness to me, but it also strengthens our team as a whole. By empowering and investing in the growth of my team, I am not only shaping individual careers but also building a strong and successful team that can achieve great things together. The satisfaction of knowing that I have played a part in their growth and success is truly the most rewarding aspect of my role as a leader.
In honor of Women’s History Month, who is a woman that inspires you?
The women in Extended Stay America who started as housekeepers, Guest Service Representatives or laundry attendants and have worked hard to advance, or who came to this country with a dream and now hold successful positions, are a source of motivation for me. Their inspiring stories show what can be achieved through determination and hard work. Being surrounded by such incredible women makes me want to strive for more in both my personal and professional life. I am thankful for the chance to hear their stories of triumph and success and to learn from their example.
What advice would you give to a woman starting her career?
My advice to young women starting their careers is to take the time to familiarize yourself with each member of your team. Actively listen to their questions, concerns and ideas, demonstrating that you value their input. Celebrate small victories together. By truly listening to your team, you not only build strong relationships with them but also show that you genuinely care. This fosters a sense of community within the team, making work a more enjoyable experience for everyone. This approach helps cultivate a culture of compassion.
How do you feel Extended Stay America champions or supports you as a woman?
I am thankful to work at Extended Stay America, where women are valued and supported. Our CEO, Greg Juceam, promotes gender equality and the Executive Team prioritizes issues important to women. The many female employees who work here play a vital role in our success through their commitment to guests, colleagues and communities. Extended Stay America encourages diversity, equal opportunities for advancement and recognizes the unique contributions of women. This supportive atmosphere has greatly impacted my professional development.
Stay tuned to our blog and social media throughout March to see what other strong women we feature for Women’s History Month.
