DENISE BRAY
Summary
Professional leader with strong expertise in managing high-performing teams and driving operational excellence. Skilled in strategic planning, resource allocation, and process optimization, ensuring efficient project execution and organizational success. Known for adaptability and fostering collaborative environments that meet and exceed business objectives. Reliable, goal-focused, and well-prepared to make significant impact.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Corporate Task Force General Manager
Greens Hospitality, Inc.
10.2022 - 05.2025
- Conduct comprehensive Quality Assurance Audits across multiple properties, ensuring compliance with brand standards.
- Provide leadership as Task Force Manager, overseeing hotel operations, revenue generation, and guest satisfaction.
- Monitor and track hotel performance metrics, delivering daily reports to senior leadership.
- Lead daily business review meetings and mentor General Managers for optimal operational efficiency.
- Hilton, Marriott, Choice, Shilo Inn, Best Western
- Developed strong partnerships with external stakeholders, fostering long-term relationships beneficial to both parties.
- Increased overall efficiency through the implementation of streamlined operational procedures and resource allocation.
- Optimized budget management processes to ensure timely access to financial resources while minimizing unnecessary expenditures.
- Established key performance indicators to effectively measure success and identify areas for improvement within the task force operations.
- Championed diversity and inclusion efforts throughout task force activities, fostering an inclusive culture that empowered all members to contribute their unique strengths effectively.
- Improved customer satisfaction rates by consistently prioritizing client needs and maintaining open lines of communication.
- Piloted innovative solutions that addressed pressing challenges within the organization, leading to more efficient workflows and better results overall.
- Led comprehensive training programs to develop employee skillsets and improve overall productivity levels.
- Reduced staff turnover rates by implementing targeted retention strategies, including competitive compensation packages and career development opportunities.
- Implemented cost-saving measures for ongoing projects, contributing to increased profitability for the company.
- Enhanced team performance by implementing effective communication strategies and regular progress reviews.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
Task Force Sales Manager
The Westin New Orleans, LA
04.2022 - 10.2022
- Managed high-volume sales, specializing in groups with 10-45 peak rooms.
- Developed new business opportunities, maintaining accurate lead information in STS and CI/TY systems.
- Negotiated and executed contracts, delivered site inspections, and conducted sales training for Marriott CI/TY.
- Successfully sent out 6–12 proposals daily, driving revenue growth.
- Training staff on Marriott System CI/TY.
- Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
- Consistently met or exceeded quarterly sales targets through diligent effort and persistence in closing deals.
- Evaluated competitor offerings to adapt sales strategies and maintain competitive advantage.
Area Group Sales Manager – Southern California
Tharaldson Hospitality Management
08.2019 - 03.2020
- Spearheaded group sales for four properties, focusing on SMERF markets.
- Negotiated room rates, built strong client relationships, and developed market strategies.
- Achieved over $757,000 in revenue within six months, securing 120+ contracts.
- Increased group sales revenue by implementing strategic marketing initiatives and leading a high-performing sales team.
- Delivered detailed monthly reports on team performance, highlighting areas for improvement while celebrating successes collectively.
- Developed key relationships with clients for long-term partnerships, resulting in repeat business and increased revenue.
- Achieved top sales performer status consistently through strong relationship-building skills and effective negotiation tactics.
- Conducted market research to identify new opportunities and adjust the sales strategy accordingly for optimal results.
- Maintained a pipeline of qualified prospects through regular networking events and targeted outreach campaigns, ensuring steady growth in both new business acquisition rates and overall revenue.
- Streamlined sales processes to improve efficiency and close deals more quickly, ultimately driving up overall profits.
- Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
- Compiled and analyzed data to determine approaches to improve sales and performance.
- Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
- Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
- Coordinated regional trade shows and industry events as part of broader marketing efforts which drove brand awareness and generated leads.
- Established clear goals for the team each quarter, fostering an environment of accountability that led to consistent target achievement.
Sales Manager
Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center
01.2017 - 07.2019
- Generated over $6M in room revenue and $720K in catering revenue.
- Maintained a personal client base worth $1.5M annually.
- Proactively solicit new and existing accounts to achieve and exceed revenue goals through strategic outreach, including telephone solicitation, in-person sales calls, site inspections, and written communication.
- Prepare professional correspondence, maintain accurate internal booking reports, and ensure organized file management.
- Actively participate in daily business review meetings, pre-convention meetings, training sessions, and other catering sales-related meetings as required.
- Conducted sales outreach, negotiated contracts, and represented the hotel at trade shows.
- Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
- Led a successful sales team by providing motivational coaching and performance-based incentives.
Group Sales Manager
DoubleTree by Hilton, San Bernardino, CA
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Increased revenue to $1.2M, doubling the previous year's performance.
- Secured a major sponsorship with Glen Helen Raceway.
- Identified potential upsell opportunities within existing accounts by closely monitoring customer satisfaction levels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Created targeted sales presentations tailored to individual client needs, effectively communicating the value of products or services offered.
- Implemented a rigorous qualification process for new leads, ensuring time and resources were focused on the most promising opportunities for success.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Established clear goals for the team each quarter, fostering an environment of accountability that led to consistent target achievement.
- Coordinated regional trade shows and industry events as part of broader marketing efforts which drove brand awareness and generated leads.
Director of Sales and Marketing
Live Nation Entertainment – Fox Performing Arts Center & Riverside Municipal Auditorium
12.2013 - 12.2014
- Opened two new venues, exceeding sales goals with $1M+ in event bookings in just three months.
- Negotiated contracts and drove record-breaking event sales.
- File management of Caterease (Special Events software system)
- Development, management and fulfillment of the Special Event marketing budget
- Submit monthly reports to GM and VP of Sales including, but not limited to: Special Event Revenue Report, Forecast, Revenue Pipeline, Talent Cost, Event Export Reports, Revenue Breakdown and Lost Business
- Developed comprehensive sales plans for business growth, resulting in significant market share expansion.
- Spearheaded trade show participation to showcase products and services, generating valuable leads and networking opportunities.
Sales & Catering Manager
Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown
06.2013 - 12.2013
- Played a key role in booking 315 events, setting a new property record.
- Successfully managed a diverse range of events including weddings, corporate functions, and special occasions, consistently exceeding client expectations.
- Hired and trained both permanent and temporary staff members.
- Coordinated with event planners for floor and table layouts, guest numbers, and overall catering needs.
- Met with clients to outline desired goals and prepared quotes for overall catering costs.
- Developed comprehensive event proposals that clearly outlined deliverables, timelines, budget requirements based on client input.
- Assisted in developing marketing materials to showcase the company''s catering services to potential clients effectively.
- Collaborated with clients to create customized menus tailored to their specific preferences and needs.
- Negotiated competitive pricing with suppliers, resulting in reduced operational costs for the company.
- Ensured compliance with all health and safety regulations, maintaining impeccable record.
Education
Diploma -
Bonita High School
La Verne, CASkills
- Core competencies
- Hospitality management proficiency
- Strategic revenue enhancement
- Regulatory compliance expertise
- Collaborative team management
- Client engagement strategies
- Skilled in utilizing hotel management applications
- Experienced with hotel management systems
- Experienced with Netchex payroll software
- Experienced in utilizing Marsha reservation software
- Knowledge of various hotel brands
- Experience in maintaining brand service quality
- Proficient in IHG brand standards
- Proficient in Hyatt Place guest services
- Hospitality management experience
- Strategic innovation management
- Innovation management
- Emergency preparedness
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 47staff members.
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Corporate Task Force General Manager
Greens Hospitality, Inc.
10.2022 - 05.2025
Task Force Sales Manager
The Westin New Orleans, LA
04.2022 - 10.2022
Area Group Sales Manager – Southern California
Tharaldson Hospitality Management
08.2019 - 03.2020
Sales Manager
Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center
01.2017 - 07.2019
Group Sales Manager
DoubleTree by Hilton, San Bernardino, CA
01.2016 - 01.2017
Director of Sales and Marketing
Live Nation Entertainment – Fox Performing Arts Center & Riverside Municipal Auditorium
12.2013 - 12.2014
Sales & Catering Manager
Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown
06.2013 - 12.2013
Diploma -
Bonita High School
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