Celebrating Women Leaders in Hospitality for International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is tomorrow, March 8. To honor the occasion, we highlight a group of women who are reshaping the hospitality industry with leadership, creativity, and dedication.

Yosie Crespo, Director of Sales & Marketing, The Perry Hotel Naples

Yosie Crespo heads sales and marketing for the boutique Perry Hotel Naples. With nearly 25 years of experience in corporate and hotel sales at luxury properties, she drives strategic initiatives that elevate the hotel’s brand, guest experience, and revenue performance.

Lesley Goldwasser, Principal Art Curator and Co-Owner, The Betsy Hotel

Lesley Goldwasser has combined a background in philanthropy, finance, and arts programming to help establish The Betsy Hotel as a cultural destination in South Beach. Her leadership has strengthened the hotel’s arts initiatives and public engagement.

Jennifer Lombard Knight, General Manager, Hotel Effie Sandestin

Jennifer Lombard Knight brings more than 18 years of global hotel experience across multiple departments. As general manager, she oversees daily operations, guest services, and team development to maintain consistent standards and memorable stays.

Kierra Moore, Hotel Manager, Arlo Chicago

Kierra Moore served eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps before transitioning to hospitality. A Chicago native, she has held roles at The Public Chicago, Hilton McCormick Place, Highgate, and DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile, bringing military discipline and operational insight to hotel management.

Misty Pacheco, Director of Sales, The Pensacola Beach Resort

Misty Pacheco brings over 24 years of hospitality experience to The Pensacola Beach Resort, including previous roles at Hilton Pensacola Beach. She collaborates with the hotel team to secure events, build partnerships, and ensure successful guest experiences.

Maggie Stokes, Corporate Director of Operations, Arlo Hotels

Maggie Stokes joined Arlo Hotels in 2016 as general manager of Arlo NoMad and has since strengthened operations across the brand. In 2023 she became Arlo’s first corporate director of operations, focusing on consistency, efficiency, and operational growth.

Anna Strindberg, Director of Events, Arlo Williamsburg

Anna Strindberg’s passion for hospitality began in her mother’s restaurant and tea shop in Sweden. With more than 15 years of event experience across six countries, she brings a global perspective and creative approach to planning and executing memorable events.

Heather Berti, SVP of People Services, Arlo Hotels

Heather Berti joined Arlo Hotels in 2016 with more than 20 years of experience in hospitality human resources. Her leadership in people services has helped shape a strong company culture and supported the brand’s recognition as an employer that values its teams.

These leaders represent a cross-section of roles in hospitality—sales, marketing, operations, events, and human resources—demonstrating how women are driving innovation and excellence across the industry. Their experience and commitment continue to shape vibrant guest experiences and strengthen workplace culture at their properties.