Kelly Thrasher
Savoy
Summary
Results-oriented Area Director of Sales with expertise in developing impactful sales strategies and managing high-performing teams. Skilled in relationship management and analyzing market trends to maximize profitability and drive business growth.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Area Director of Sales
Stadium View Hiltons
Champaign, IL
01.2022 - 07.2026
- Developed and executed strategic sales plans to maximize revenue growth across multiple hotel properties.
- Led and mentored sales team, enhancing performance through targeted training and development initiatives.
- Analyzed market trends and competitor activities to inform strategic decision-making and pricing strategies.
- Fostered strong relationships with corporate clients, increasing repeat business and customer loyalty.
- Implemented CRM systems to streamline communication and improve tracking of client interactions and sales pipelines.
- Developed strong relationships with key clients for increased customer retention and higher sales volumes.
- Analyzed sales trends and implemented necessary adjustments to maximize profitability.
- Acted as a liaison between the sales team and senior management, presenting monthly progress reports and suggesting improvements where necessary for better overall functioning of the department.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Managed team of sales representatives, providing guidance, coaching and support.
- Connected with prospects through trade shows, cold calling and local-area networking.
- Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
Sales Manager
Stadium View Hiltons
Champaign, IL
01.2018 - 01.2022
- Developed and implemented sales strategies to enhance customer engagement and drive revenue growth.
- Trained and mentored sales staff to improve product knowledge and customer service skills.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities and adjust sales tactics accordingly.
- Collaborated with marketing team to create promotional campaigns that align with sales objectives.
General Manager
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
Champaign, IL
2016 - 2018
- Implemented cost control measures to improve profitability across all departments.
- Trained and mentored management team, fostering leadership development and staff retention.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing waste and optimizing supply chain efficiency.
- Directed daily operations to enhance service quality and guest satisfaction.
Sales Manager
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
Champaign, IL
2015 - 2016
- Fostered relationships with key clients, enhancing retention rates through personalized service initiatives.
- Monitored sales performance metrics to ensure targets were met consistently across the team.
- Conducted regular training sessions on best practices for effective selling techniques and customer interactions.
- Streamlined reporting processes using CRM systems, improving accuracy in tracking sales activities and outcomes.
Night Auditor
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
Champaign, IL
2014 - 2015
- Implemented security measures to safeguard guests and property during night hours.
- Monitored hotel systems and equipment, ensuring functionality throughout the night shift.
- Coordinated room assignments and maintained inventory for efficient occupancy management.
- Assisted in training new staff on operational procedures for seamless workflow.
General Manager
TGI Fridays
Champaign, IL
01.2009 - 04.2012
- Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
- Led daily restaurant operations, ensuring smooth service and adherence to company standards.
- Trained and mentored staff on operational best practices and customer service excellence.
- Developed staff schedules to maximize efficiency while maintaining compliance with labor laws.
- Implemented inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, enhancing guest satisfaction and loyalty.
Assitant General Manager
TGI Fridays
Springfield, IL
06.2005 - 01.2009
- Streamlined daily operations to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Trained and mentored staff on service standards and best practices.
- Implemented inventory management systems to reduce waste and improve accuracy.
- Developed employee schedules to optimize labor costs while meeting service demands.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and delivery.
- Fostered a positive team culture, enhancing collaboration and employee morale.
- Handled cash accurately and prepared deposits.
- Motivated, trained, and disciplined employees to maximize performance.
- Increased customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving concerns in a timely manner.
Head Bartender
TGI Fridays
Springfield, IL
08.2001 - 06.2005
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders on cocktail preparation and customer service standards.
- Developed innovative drink specials to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.
- Managed inventory levels, ordering supplies to maintain optimal stock for peak service times.
- Supervised bar operations, ensuring compliance with safety and health regulations.
Night Auditor
Drury Inn & Suites
Springfield, IL
1999 - 2001
- Managed front desk operations, providing exceptional customer service during overnight shifts.
- Processed nightly financial reports to ensure accuracy and compliance with hotel standards.
- Conducted audits of cash drawers and transactions to maintain financial integrity.
- Resolved guest inquiries and complaints promptly, enhancing overall guest satisfaction.
Education
No Degree - Communication
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
Edwardsville, ILNo Degree - Communications
Lincolnland Community College
Springfield, ILSkills
- Key account growth
- Sales operations
- Sales presentations
- Sales technology
- Revenue Management
- Customer Relationship Management
- Project Management
- Sales Strategy
- Market Analysis
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Competitive Analysis
- Demand Forecasting
Certification
Hilton VAST 1 Certification,
Hilton VAST 2 Certification,
Hilton General Manager Certification,
GRO Training Certification,
R&I Certification,
Hilton Extended Stay Certification
Timeline
Area Director of Sales
Stadium View Hiltons
01.2022 - 07.2026
Sales Manager
Stadium View Hiltons
01.2018 - 01.2022
General Manager
TGI Fridays
01.2009 - 04.2012
Assitant General Manager
TGI Fridays
06.2005 - 01.2009
Head Bartender
TGI Fridays
08.2001 - 06.2005
General Manager
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
2016 - 2018
Sales Manager
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
2015 - 2016
Night Auditor
Homewood Suites by Hilton Champaign
2014 - 2015
Night Auditor
Drury Inn & Suites
1999 - 2001
No Degree - Communication
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
No Degree - Communications
Lincolnland Community College