Meet the Manager
Embassy Suites General Manager Kate Leonard
Charlotte’s Hotel scene is rapidly evolving. Since the Democratic National Convention in 2012, the Queen City has added nearly 3,000 hotel rooms. That increase has led to a highly competitive market where finding top talent is paramount to running a successful hotel. A graduate of the Johnson & Wales Hospitality Program, Kate Leonard represents just such talent. Starting in 2006 at the Front Desk, Kate diligently worked her way through the ranks, spending time mastering skills in each department of a hotel. From Housekeeping to Catering Sales, Banquets to Guest Services, Kate impressed and excelled at every turn.
After winning the NCRLA Hotel Manager of the Year award in 2015, and successfully ushering the Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte/Ayrsley through a comprehensive $2 million dollar renovation, she set her sights on her biggest challenge to date—assuming leadership of the 170-room full-service Embassy Suites Charlotte/Ayrsley.
Kate’s return to the Embassy is especially meaningful given that she was a proud member of the team that opened the hotel in 2016. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Kate to get an idea of what her life is like both inside and out of the Hotel Industry.
What initially interested you in working in the Hotel Industry?
KL: Getting to travel through the United States with my family, attending industry conventions and meetings in what seemed like HUGE, FANCY hotels made an impression on my 6 year old self. As I joined youth organizations and took on leadership positions I actually got to put my two cents in while planning the events and meetings- and I was hooked. After internships with different local hospitality venues I found the freedom and problem-solving involved in operations a little adrenaline inducing- just like playing defense in lacrosse which I loved in high school!
What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started?
KL: You can learn just as much from the losses as you can learn from the wins. Don’t let mistakes stress you out. It’s all about how you handle and what you do with the lesson. Starting out in entry level management positions I felt like I produced lots of progress in shorts amounts of time … as I advance to higher level positions I have learned that sometimes it’s more about the little progress made daily!
What has changed the most since starting in the Industry?
KL: The technology has been incredible! In the past 13 years that I've been in the industry-Digital Key, Hilton Honors App, E-Check In/Check Out, and soon Smart Room will be everywhere: control all aspects of the room: temp, tv, lights via your phone! And this is so exciting to a former 6 yr old who always knew when it was their turn to push the elevator buttons.
What is one fun or surprising fact your team might not know about you?
KL: I can play both the piano and the violin- but don't expect me to be performing in the lobby anytime soon!
What are you looking forward to professionally?
KL: Continued growth!
What qualities should a team leader have?
KL: Decisiveness, confidence, humility, and kindness- I've been lucky to have numerous examples throughout my life and career.
Who has inspired you in your life, and why?
KL: My parents have inspired me with their incredible work ethic and integrity, not only in business but all aspects of their lives.
What movie title best describes your life?
KL: Sleeping Beauty- I definitely enjoy crawling under the covers with my dog Nala after a long successful day!
What would be your ideal way to spend the weekend?
KL: I love traveling somewhere new with friends and family-even researching and planning a trip is one of my favorite ways to recharge for the work week! Taking my dog, Nala, on long walks through the neighborhood or to the dog park is how I like to explore closer to home.