Her Story
About Karen
Karen Britton, C.H.A., is a hospitality executive with nearly two decades of experience leading full-service, extended-stay, and select-service hotels for nationally recognized brands. Since entering the hospitality industry in 2007, she has built a reputation as an operations-driven, people-first leader who thrives on solving complex challenges, developing high-performing teams, and creating exceptional guest experiences. Currently serving as General Manager of the DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek with 6PM Hospitality Partners, Karen oversees all aspects of hotel operations, financial performance, and strategic growth. She believes one of the greatest responsibilities of a general manager is empowering others, recognizing that lasting success depends on building strong teams, fostering accountability, and enabling associates to execute a shared vision.
Karen's passion for hospitality began in high school through culinary arts after a visit to the Culinary Institute of America sparked her interest in the industry. She earned an A.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Valencia College and a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida. Throughout her career, she has gained experience across virtually every area of hotel operations, including rooms, engineering, food and beverage, and executive leadership. A Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA), she has successfully led multimillion-dollar hotel operations, consistently improving profitability, guest satisfaction, employee engagement, and operational performance. Karen is an active member of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA), and The Wise Pineapple Crown Club, reflecting her commitment to professional development and advancing the hospitality industry.
Karen is especially energized by opportunities that create lasting impact. In her current role, she leads a hotel that partners with a local community college as part of a hospitality training collaboration, providing students with meaningful industry exposure and mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals. She is excited to contribute to the continued revitalization of Battle Creek through community partnerships, workforce development, and exceptional hospitality. Outside of work, Karen is a proud mother of three and credits the support of her husband, a stay-at-home father, for helping make her demanding leadership career possible. Together, they value family, service, and giving back to the communities they call home.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karen
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining an open mind, embracing every opportunity to learn, and persevering through challenges rather than walking away from them. Hospitality is an industry that requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to grow, and those qualities have shaped my career. I have also been incredibly fortunate to have the support of an inspiring network of female hospitality leaders, including my best friend, Sarah, who serves as a General Manager in Denver, as well as many other talented general managers who have encouraged, challenged, and supported me throughout my journey. Their mentorship, collaboration, and shared experiences have reinforced the importance of lifting one another up while continuing to grow as leaders.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received was to spend time working in housekeeping if I was truly committed to a career in hospitality. Because housekeeping is one of the largest operational expenses in a hotel, gaining firsthand experience in that department provides invaluable insight into labor management, cost control, operational efficiency, and financial stewardship. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for every role within a hotel and reinforced the importance of leading with both empathy and operational knowledge. It ultimately shaped me into a more effective, well-rounded leader who understands that sustainable financial success is built on a foundation of operational excellence.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the hospitality industry is to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve while remaining open to new opportunities and experiences. Set meaningful goals and develop a plan but recognize that the industry offers a wide range of career paths that may lead you in unexpected and rewarding directions. Embrace the foundational roles and be willing to do the hard work early in your career, as those experiences build resilience, broaden your perspective, and provide the practical knowledge that will serve as the foundation for long-term leadership and success.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are integrity and transparency, along with a genuine commitment to caring for both associates and guests. I believe in leading with honesty, accountability, and consistency in every decision, while also fostering an environment where people feel respected, supported, and valued. I also place strong emphasis on doing everything with intention—being deliberate in my actions, thoughtful in my approach, and focused on creating meaningful outcomes rather than simply completing tasks.
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