CLARE MATTHEWS
Knightdale,NC
Summary
Results-oriented Hospitality and Travel Operations Professional with over 15 years of experience in multi-property hotel environments and corporate travel management. Proficient in Quality Assurance, Brand Standards Compliance, Guest Experience Evaluation, and Operational Audits. Demonstrated ability to enhance service quality, optimize vendor relationships, and ensure brand alignment through meticulous inspections and data-driven reporting.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Office Manager
Edwards Homes LLC
07.2014 - Current
- Oversee organizational compliance efforts, reviewing internal processes and identifying operational gaps.
- Conduct internal quality audits related to vendor performance, travel policies, and workflow efficiency.
- Strengthen supplier relationships through continuous performance monitoring and issue resolution.
- Prepare detailed analytical reports summarizing risks, performance trends, and improvement opportunities.
Director of Planning and Events
The Stand Foundation LLC
10.2012 - Current
- Enhanced event safety compliance through comprehensive onsite evaluations.
- Conducted quality inspections, producing detailed reports with visuals for stakeholders.
- Streamlined logistics by coordinating with vendors for consistent guest experiences.
- Managed budgets and workflows, implementing post-event improvement strategies for future success.
Sales Manager
Hilton Garden Inn
11.2006 - 07.2014
- Ensured property readiness for corporate events through rigorous walk-throughs.
- Resolved guest-service escalations regarding room quality and service effectively.
- Enhanced operations by analyzing service metrics and client feedback.
- Supported Hilton service standards by assisting in property inspections preparation.
Group Sales & Marketing Manager
Hampton Inn (Multi-Property)
12.2005 - 11.2006
- Ensured adherence to Hilton brand standards through room and meeting space assessments.
- Monitored service quality by inspecting rooms prior to group arrivals.
- Facilitated budget planning and corrective actions with general managers.
- Created inclusive guest experiences aligned with brand values through strategic initiatives.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Analytics
Virginia Union University
Richmond, VASkills
- Organizational leadership
- Travel arrangements
- Expense reporting
- Relationship building
- Compliance monitoring
- Customer service
Certification
- Hospitality Management Certification – Wake Technical Community College (2020)
- ServSafe Manager Certification – Wake Technical Community College (2020)
Timeline
Executive Office Manager
Edwards Homes LLC
07.2014 - Current
Director of Planning and Events
The Stand Foundation LLC
10.2012 - Current
Sales Manager
Hilton Garden Inn
11.2006 - 07.2014
Group Sales & Marketing Manager
Hampton Inn (Multi-Property)
12.2005 - 11.2006
Bachelor of Science - Business Analytics
Virginia Union University