Judith Gray
Judith Gray is a seasoned hospitality professional currently serving as the Director of Sales for TownePlace Suites by Marriott and Homewood Suites by Hilton in Goldsboro, North Carolina, under LBA Hospitality. In this role, she oversees strategic sales initiatives, business development, and client relationship management for both properties, driving growth and ensuring exceptional guest experiences. Her leadership is instrumental in launching and establishing new hotel operations in the region.
With over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, Judith has held key positions across multiple hotel brands, including Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Best Western Plus, and ZMC Hotels. Her previous roles range from Executive Housekeeper and Front Office Manager to Director of Operations and Area Sales Manager. This diverse experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations, sales strategies, and team management, enabling her to effectively lead and inspire her teams.
Judith holds an Associate of Arts in Education from Wayne Community College and has earned certifications in Extended Stay Sales from Hilton. Known for her dedication, mentorship, and commitment to excellence, she actively participates in industry events and conferences, continually seeking opportunities to grow professionally while contributing to the success of the hospitality community in Goldsboro.
• Extended Stay Sales
• Wayne Community College - AA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to over 13 years of dedication and hard work in the industry, steadily advancing from the front desk to my current role as Director of Sales. As a working mom, I take pride in providing exceptional service to both my colleagues and customers while remaining fully devoted to my two children, a son and daughter in middle school. I approach every challenge with determination and am never afraid to hear “no,” viewing each obstacle as an opportunity to grow and excel.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. I’ve carried this mindset throughout my career, using it to stay focused, motivated, and resilient in pursuing my goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to never take “no” for an answer and to remember that the only bad question is the one you don’t ask. Staying curious, persistent, and confident will open doors and create opportunities for growth.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is maintaining high occupancy rates for our hotels while fostering a strong, collaborative team environment. I strive to contribute as a dedicated team player, knowing that our collective success depends on both individual effort and seamless teamwork.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are dedication and balance. I strive to give 100% to my career while also being fully present and committed to my children, ensuring success and fulfillment in both areas.