Karen Paulon Cmp

Karen Paulon, CMP has an extensive and diverse work experience in the hospitality industry. Karen started their career in 1992 with Marriott International, where they held multiple positions including Sales Manager and Director of Revenue Management. During their time at Marriott, they played a key role in developing Marriott's first Director of Revenue Management Training Program.

In 2006, Karen joined Newport Hotel Group as the Corporate Director of Revenue Management. Karen implemented new initiatives for seven properties, focusing on pricing, demand analysis, yield management, and market segmentation. Karen also managed the Central Reservation Office and Call Center.

From 2009 to 2011, Karen worked for Noble House Hotels as the Senior Director of Revenue Management. In this role, they created strategies to improve sales performance and partnered with senior leadership to analyze trends and determine segment objectives. Karen also implemented a training program for revenue managers.

Karen then moved to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. as the Regional Director of Sales. Karen led direct sales initiatives for 43 Starwood hotels in the North Region and coordinated logistics and roll outs for new builds and transitions.

From 2013 to 2014, they worked as the Senior Sales / Director of Group and BT Sales at Hyatt Regency Resort, Spa and Conference Center under Davidson Hotels & Resorts. Karen provided business development and strategic sales initiatives, achieving 121% of the annual budget and making a personal contribution of 138% of the revenue goal.

In 2014, they joined Pheasant Run Golf and Spa Resort and Convention Center- Hostmark Hospitality as the Director of Sales and Marketing, Catering, and Conventions- Task Force. Karen executed sales and marketing initiatives for the largest entertainment resort in the Midwest, while also structuring the hotel's annual revenue budget and departmental objectives.

From 2015 to 2016, Karen worked as the Regional Director of Sales and Marketing at Waterford Hotel Group. Karen drove revenue-building strategies, conceptualized sales strategies and forecasts based on key performance indicators and market data, and facilitated meetings to identify areas of opportunity and best practices for maximizing property resources and revenue capabilities.

In 2017, Karen joined OTO Development as the Regional Director of Sales and Marketing. Karen held this position until 2021 and was responsible for regional sales and marketing efforts.

Most recently, Karen joined Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham, Inc. in 2021 as the Director of Sales Marketing. In May 2022, they transitioned to their current role as the Regional Director of Sales and Marketing at Hersha Hospitality Management.

Throughout their career, Karen has consistently demonstrated their expertise in sales and marketing, revenue management, and leadership. Karen has achieved notable success in driving revenue growth and implementing effective strategies.

Karen Paulon, CMP holds an Associate's degree in Hospitality Administration/Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Prior to attending university, they completed their College Preparatory education at Boston Latin High School. Karen also has a certification as a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP).