Her Story
About LaTrice
LaTrice Thompson is a hospitality operations professional with more than 20 years of experience in hotel management, guest services, and front desk operations. As the Operations Supervisor at Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop – Theatre District in Chicago, Illinois, she oversees front desk operations while providing leadership and operational support for security, housekeeping, restaurant services, and staff training. Throughout her career, she has built a reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences, resolving complex service challenges, and fostering positive relationships with both guests and team members. Thompson began her hospitality career in 2006 in room service before advancing through progressively responsible roles in reservations, PBX operations, front desk supervision, and hotel operations management. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from East West University, where she became the first mathematics major to graduate from the program. Her analytical background, combined with extensive hands-on hospitality experience, has enabled her to develop strong operational, leadership, and customer service skills that contribute to efficient hotel operations and outstanding guest satisfaction. Committed to integrity, professionalism, and continuous learning, Thompson attributes her success to perseverance, learning through experience, and never hesitating to ask questions. She believes honesty is the foundation of effective leadership and values trust, accountability, and open communication in every aspect of her work. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she has supported charitable fundraising initiatives benefiting the March of Dimes and Breast Cancer Awareness and remains passionate about encouraging the next generation of hospitality professionals to pursue their goals with purpose, resilience, and dedication.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with LaTrice
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to learning through trial and error and never being afraid to ask questions. I kept pushing forward until I found the right solutions, learned from experienced colleagues by observing them closely, and continually sought opportunities to improve my knowledge and skills.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to always be honest. Honesty builds credibility, trust, and strong relationships, especially when working with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Being truthful allows others to rely on me and creates a foundation for lasting professional success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to make sure hospitality is truly the career they want because it is a demanding profession. Set clear long-term goals, whether hospitality is your lifelong career or a stepping stone toward another opportunity. Stay focused on your objectives, continue your education whenever possible, and remain committed to personal and professional growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges facing the hospitality industry is hiring and retaining qualified employees. Many people are reluctant to work in hospitality because of compensation concerns and the lasting effects of the pandemic, making it increasingly difficult to recruit dedicated professionals. Despite these challenges, organizations that invest in strong teams and excellent guest service have significant opportunities to succeed.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and truthfulness are the values that guide both my personal and professional life. I believe in being truthful with myself, my family, my colleagues, and my team members. I also encourage others to ask for help when they need it because open communication, integrity, and accountability create stronger relationships and better outcomes.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.