Lishia Lira
Lishia Lira is an experienced hospitality professional whose career spans more than three decades across food service, guest relations, and operations leadership. A graduate of Walters State Community College with an Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts, she began her career in culinary and customer-facing roles that laid the foundation for her strong service-driven philosophy. Her early positions, including roles at Fry’s Food and Drug, Food City Supermarkets, and National Fitness Center, allowed her to develop a deep understanding of guest experience, team management, and the fast-paced demands of service environments.
Lishia’s expertise continued to grow as she advanced into culinary leadership, serving as an Assistant Chef at Regency Retirement Village before joining Wilderness at the Smokies Resort in 2012. Over the next 13 years, she built an impressive tenure as Food & Beverage Manager, overseeing five locations within the resort and leading large, diverse teams through daily operations and seasonal demands. Known for her hands-on leadership, she mentored emerging supervisors, implemented safety and compliance standards—including ServSafe, ABC licensing, knife-safety protocols, and optional CPR/first aid training—and helped elevate the resort’s dining experience through her dedication to quality and service.
In 2024, Lishia embarked on a new chapter by transitioning into the real estate industry, driven by her passion for helping people and her natural talent for creating memorable customer experiences. After successfully completing her real estate exam, she stepped away from hospitality to focus on her new career path, supported by a trusted real estate broker who has mentored her since early in the year. With decades of leadership, service excellence, and community engagement behind her, Lishia brings a relationship-focused, hospitality-infused approach to real estate—ensuring every client feels valued, supported, and at home throughout the buying or selling journey.
• Walters State Community College - AA
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When offering advice to young women entering the hospitality industry, I always emphasize the value of keeping an open mind, embracing the diversity of personalities you’ll encounter, and recognizing how deeply fulfilling this profession can be. Hospitality is a people-driven field, and maintaining curiosity, empathy, and flexibility will serve you well throughout your career.
Locations
Wilderness at the Smokies Resort
Talbott, TN 37877