Accomplished executive with "Service before Self" attitude. More than 30 years experience in hospitality sales, tourism, operations, municipal government, regulatory compliance and business licensing/short term rentals. Proven ability to build strong stakeholder and customer relationships, lead teams, manage budgets, interpret and enforce regulations, and deliver exceptional service in fast-paced environments. Recognized for sound judgement, organizational strength, and the ability to balance regulatory compliance with efficiency and community engagement.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Business License Official
City of Folly Beach
Folly Beach, SC
05.2022 - 06.2026
Oversaw business licensing and code compliance programs while following municipal, state, and federal regulations.
Reviewed and approved business license applications while ensuring compliance with zoning, safety, and operational requirements.
Conducted inspections, investigated complaints, documented findings, and initiated corrective actions when necessary.
Maintained licensing, inspection, and enforcement records using municipal database systems.
Worked collaboratively with business owners, contractors, residents, and city departments to resolve compliance issues and provide regulatory guidance.
Prepared documentation and presented compliance cases before municipal boards and court as required.
Assisted in updating ordinances and improving internal processes to enhance operational efficiency.
Managed licensing for 4000+ licenses and registration for 1200+ short-term rental properties.
Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
Director of Catering Sales
Aramark/College of Charleston
Charleston, SC
08.2021 - 05.2022
Developed and implemented catering sales strategies to enhance client engagement and satisfaction.
Managed client relationships, ensuring seamless communication and prompt resolution of inquiries.
Collaborated with culinary teams to design customized menus aligned with client preferences and dietary needs.
Oversaw event logistics, coordinating timelines and resources for successful execution of catering services.
Directed all catering operations for university functions ranging from executive meetings to large-scale athletic and campus events.
Managed budgets, labor, staffing, scheduling, inventory, and vendor relationships while maintaining profitability and service excellence.
Led recruitment, training, and development of catering staff.
Oversaw daily restaurant operations, guiding front and back of house teams to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
Oversaw scheduling, payroll, inventory, cash management, and compliance with health and safety standards.
Coordinated private dining events from proposal through execution, working closely with clients, chefs, and outside vendors.
Utilized Aloha POS and Tripleseat to streamline operations and event management.
Drove sales growth for multiple venues through strategic marketing, networking, and client relationship management.
Planned and executed corporate, nonprofit, and social events while managing event logistics and vendor partnerships.
Developed marketing materials, managed social media campaigns, and represented the organization at community and industry events.
Collaborated with executive leadership to establish sales goals and improve market visibility.
Regional Sales Manager
Tin Roof Bars / Music Farm / The Senate
Columbia, SC
08.2016 - 07.2019
Developed and executed regional sales strategies to enhance market presence across SC & NC.
Established strong relationships with key stakeholders to drive business growth.
Led cross-functional teams to optimize sales processes and improve customer engagement.
Analyzed market trends and competitor activity to inform strategic decision-making.
Managed catering teams and coordinated concerts, festivals, nonprofit events, community events, corporate functions and golf tournaments.
Director of Sales & Catering
Sejwad Hospitality
Columbia, SC
01.2013 - 08.2016
Developed and implemented strategic sales plans to achieve revenue targets across multiple hospitality sectors.
Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, resulting in improved partnerships and increased sales opportunities.
Led cross-functional teams to enhance customer experiences and drive repeat business in competitive markets.
Analyzed market trends and competitor activities to inform pricing strategies and promotional campaigns.
Managed corporate accounts, negotiated contracts, developed annual sales plans, and coordinated complex events from planning through execution.
Supervised banquet operations and collaborated with culinary, sales, and operations teams to exceed client expectations.
Negotiated group room rates and blocks for corporate and government agencies.
Maintained long-term client relationships while consistently achieving revenue and profitability goals.
Represented company at networking, chamber, and rotary events.
Mentored and trained a high-performing sales team, fostering professional growth and enhancing overall performance.
Conducted regular performance evaluations and provided actionable feedback to optimize team effectiveness and productivity.
Corporate Sales Manager
Hilton Columbia Center
Columbia, SC
09.2011 - 01.2013
Developed new government and corporate accounts while maintaining existing client relationships.
Led cross-functional teams to drive collaborative sales initiatives and improve client engagement.
Analyzed market trends and customer feedback to refine sales strategies and offerings.
Negotiated corporate agreements, coordinated group accommodations and represented the hotels (Hilton Columbia Center & Hampton Inn & Suites) at networking and community events.
Managed proposals, contracts, account maintenance, and strategic business development initiatives.
Director of Sales
Southern Connection Tours
Lexington, SC
08.2009 - 09.2011
Developed strategic sales plans to enhance market penetration and revenue growth.
Analyzed sales data to identify trends, optimize pricing strategies, and increase profitability.
Led cross-functional teams to execute marketing initiatives and improve customer engagement.
Planned and escorted customized group travel for corporate, educational, and leisure clients.
Expanded business through networking, inside sales, and community engagement.
Corporate & Leisure Travel Consultant
Travel Company / American Express
Columbia, SC
10.1991 - 08.2009
Managed complex travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, and excursions for diverse clientele.
Designed tailored travel itineraries based on client preferences and budget constraints.
Cultivated relationships with suppliers to enhance product offerings and ensure competitive pricing.
Analyzed customer feedback to refine travel services and improve overall client satisfaction.
Developed promotional materials highlighting exclusive travel packages to drive sales initiatives.
Provided exemplary customer service to new and existing clients, which helped build lasting relationships and secure new travel assignments.
Developed strong relationships with vendors, leading to improved partnerships and enhanced offerings for clients.
Educated clients on travel insurance options, emphasizing the importance of coverage during unforeseen circumstances.
Received positive feedback from clients consistently due to outstanding communication skills and timely follow-ups.
Attended industry conferences regularly to network with key players and stay current on emerging trends within the leisure travel field.
Assisted clients with troubleshooting issues during their trips, offering prompt solutions to ensure a seamless experience.
Maximized profits by upselling additional products such as excursions or upgrades whenever appropriate opportunities arose during consultation sessions.
Contributed to the agency''s growth through the consistent acquisition of new clients via referral networks and targeted outreach efforts.
Education
No Degree - Public Relations
Ashford University
San Diego, CA
No Degree - Public Relations & Marketing
Midlands Technical College
West Columbia, SC
Certified Travel Consultant - Tourism And Hospitality
PAL Travel School
Columbia, SC
Skills
Operational efficiency
Customer service
Inventory control
Contract negotiation
Sales leadership
Staff training
Client acquisition
Teamwork and collaboration
Community engagement
Tyler Technologies
Granicus
Deckard Rentalscape
Oracle NetSuite
Amadeus Delphi
Sabre
Apollo
Tripleseat
Caterease
Aloha POS
Clover
Certification
Master in Business Licensing - March 2026
Accreditation in Business Licensing - May 2022 - March 2025
CPR & First Aid - 2025
Interests
Environmental Stewardship
Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects