Melissa Edwards

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT MELISSA EDWARDS

I believe in the power of collaboration.After more than twenty years of negotiating on behalf of associations and corporations, religious groups and other clients in the hospitality industry have taught me that listening to what each partner has to say and working together delivers results.At Maritz, I bring clients and hotels together as a Strategic Account Manager. I want every event—from board meeting to tradeshow to massive conference—to surpass all expectations. I do it not just because it’s my job, but because this is an industry I have always loved.Growing up with my five siblings, rather than playing hide and seek or house, we played hotel. I sat at a table at the bottom of our stairs, checked in “guests” and made sure they enjoyed their “stay.” And though today I’m working on a global level with key clients, some skills are timeless. When I am sourcing and contracting for a client, I am still listening and negotiating to make sure every meeting is a success.My role allows me the opportunity to collaborate every day with:• clients: nurturing long term connections and building new relationships on trust and results• the hospitality industry: touring properties, staying up to date on locations and venues, keeping tabs on industry trends• candidates: as an ambassador for Maritz, I keep my eyes open for the next great account manager—someone as passionate about hotels and client relationships as I amIt’s probably no surprise that even after all these years in the business, I haven’t lost my love for travel. Experiencing new destinations—the cuisines, the new ways of thinking and talking—it’s such a thrill. I loved it as a kid and I still love it today. Specialties include: strategic partnerships | cross-functional collaboration | new business development