Dynamic leader with a track record of bridging strategic objectives with operational realities. Expertise in strategy formulation, team development, and operational oversight. Proven proficiency in liaising with stakeholders, managing diverse teams, and executing multifaceted projects.
Hi, I’m
Michelle Jensen Session
Alameda,CA
Summary
Overview
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Aquarius Hospitality SolutionsSan Francisco, CA
Co-Founder & Chief Business Development Officer
08.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Collaborated with executive teams to define and execute organizational business development strategies.
- Communicated directly with customers and partners to build strong business networks and relationships.
- Established and maintained highly effective relationships with clients and industry partners to drive growth.
- Co-led strategic business support initiatives to increase customer base and expand market share, emphasizing organizational development and commercial strategies.
- Developed new proposals, contracts and procedures to draw in more clients and streamline work operations.
- Utilized market trends, mission priorities and customer goals to envision, shape and close new opportunities.
- Implemented creative sales training techniques for new and existing staff to increase revenue and overall success.
Kensington Investment GroupSan Francisco, CA
Principal, Operations & Strategy
03.2013 - 08.2022
Job overview
- Led strategic planning initiatives, setting the company's long-term vision and ensuring alignment with performance metrics.
- Managed a portfolio's growth from $100M to $250M over six years by analyzing market studies and economic trends.
- Directed hotel operations, optimizing business performance, and ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
- Spearheaded recruitment and talent management strategies, achieving a 96% retention rate despite economic challenges.
UC San DiegoSan Diego, CA
Equal Opportunity Compliance Specialist
10.2011 - 02.2013
Job overview
- Developed and analyzed data to facilitate EEO/AA policy decisions, ensuring compliance with State and Federal regulations.
- Formulated, reviewed and collaborated on system-wide policies, leading to revisions in campus-wide policies and procedures.
- Created and delivered campus-wide programs, presentations, and training on DEI, Career Development, Leadership, Mentorship, EEO/AA laws and regulations.
UC San Diego Sustainability Solutions InstituteSan Diego, CA
Administrative Specialist
11.2007 - 09.2011
Job overview
- Managed logistics and budgets for several international, high profile interdisciplinary research workshops in multiple countries, including international travel and visas for participants.
- Assisted in the development of research unit proposals and prepared technical reports for donor agencies.
- Led the design, launch and maintenance of the SSI website and managed the daily operations of the SSI office including volunteer management, HR policy development and oversight, budget development and oversight.
Golden Care AcademySan Diego, CA
Program Coordinator
01.2005 - 07.2006
Job overview
- Oversaw program development, volunteer recruitment and management, office oversight, event planning, and fundraising for a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
- Managed advertising and marketing campaigns, website development, and engaged with the Board of Directors.
- Created and delivered program training and education to keep participants knowledgeable about program and provide necessary skills to participate productively.
Education
University of California Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara, CA
Bachelor of Arts from Environmental Studies & Global Peace And Security
2004
University Overview
Skills
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- Project Management & Implementation
- Team Leadership & Development
- Process Optimization & Innovation
Websites
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/msession
- https://aquariushs.net
- https://podcast.hospitalitydaily.com/michelle-jensen-session-diversity/
- https://podcast.hospitalitydaily.com/michelle-jensen-session-sustainability/
- https://podcast.hospitalitydaily.com/why-invest-in-hotels/
- https://www.hertelier.com/post/navigating-difflaura-lee-blake-president-ceo-at-aahoa
- https://www.hertelier.com/post/the-future-is-now-five-innovations-in-customer-experience-you-didn-t-
- https://www.hertelier.com/post/7-common-objections-to-sustainable-practices-in-the-hotel-industry-an
Affiliations
Affiliations
- Contributing Author, Hertelier
- Podcast Speaker, Hospitality Daily
- Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA)
- Women Leading Travel & Hospitality,
- HTNG Consultant with American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA)
- Former Best Western Hotels & Resorts Voting Member
- Former Best Western Hotels & Resorts Emerging Leader
- Former Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) Owners Association
- Former Staff Chair, Advisory Committee on the Status of Women, UC San Diego
Awards
Awards
February 2011 - Campus-wide Diversity Champion / UC San Diego
Timeline
Co-Founder & Chief Business Development Officer
Aquarius Hospitality Solutions
08.2022 - Current
Principal, Operations & Strategy
Kensington Investment Group
03.2013 - 08.2022
Equal Opportunity Compliance Specialist
UC San Diego
10.2011 - 02.2013
Administrative Specialist
UC San Diego Sustainability Solutions Institute
11.2007 - 09.2011
Program Coordinator
Golden Care Academy
01.2005 - 07.2006
University of California Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Arts from Environmental Studies & Global Peace And Security