Hailey Thomas-Turner
Hailey Thomas-Turner is an accomplished hospitality management professional, currently serving as Assistant Location Manager at Yellowstone National Park, based at the iconic Old Faithful Inn. In her role, Hailey functions as an assistant general manager, overseeing departmental managers across lodging, food and beverage, housekeeping, and security. She collaborates closely with her teams to ensure that operational standards are met and that guests receive exceptional service. Despite just beginning this role in 2026, Hailey has already made a strong impact, leveraging her prior experience to optimize operational efficiency and foster a collaborative work environment.
Hailey’s career in hospitality management spans over four years, beginning when she transitioned from a STEM background in biomedical engineering to an entry-level catering operations position at Northwestern University. Through dedication and adaptability, she quickly expanded her responsibilities to encompass general operations, gaining experience across multiple departments. Her prior role as Facilities and Operations Manager at Northwestern University provided a strong foundation for leadership, project management, and operational oversight, preparing her for her current leadership position at one of the nation’s busiest and most celebrated hospitality venues.
Committed to continual growth and professional development, Hailey is completing a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Project Management at Arizona State University, expected in 2025. She has also earned a Google Data Analytics Career Certificate through Merit America and completed leadership and professional development programs at Northwestern University. Beyond her professional pursuits, Hailey is actively involved in community service, volunteering with organizations such as Chicago Food Depository, Chicago Cares, and Educate. Radiate. Elevate. She is a firm advocate for mentorship, teamwork, and empowering the next generation of young women to pursue leadership roles in hospitality and operations management.
• Professional Development Certification
• Leadership Certification
• Arizona State University – Bachelor of Arts (BA), Organizational Leadership – Project Management
• Illinois Institute of Technology – Biomedical Engineering (Incomplete)
• Influential Women 2026
• National Society of Black Engineers
• Chicago Food Depository
• Chicago Cares
• NATIONAL CAUCUS & CENTER ON BLACK AGING
• Educate. Radiate. Elevate.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being given a chance by a former senior director of catering and taking that opportunity. From there, I grew into broader operational roles by embracing increased responsibility and learning from supportive teams.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women that they can do it — they are capable of anything they put their mind to. As long as they have the will to pursue it, they can achieve their goals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Growth, continual learning, perseverance and willpower, recognition of achievements, and mentorship/teamwork are the values that guide me both professionally and personally.