Lizbeth Vargas

I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and a genuine passion for hospitality. I began my career at just 15 years old, working as a cashier and helping my family, which taught me the value of responsibility and service early on. When I decided to pursue a new path, I joined the Hampton Inn with the goal of working in housekeeping, but instead, I was offered a position at the front desk. It took me a solid year to fully master the role, but in that time, I fell in love with the hospitality industry and knew I had found my calling. After two years, I was promoted to Operations Manager, which gave me the opportunity to lead and mentor others while ensuring an exceptional guest experience. Later, I transitioned to Best Western as an Assistant General Manager during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, where adaptability and empathy became even more essential. Over the years, I’ve also had the privilege of working with major brands such as Hilton and Marriott, each experience strengthening my leadership and operational skills. Today, I proudly serve as a Hotel Manager at Marriott in Beverly Hills, California, where I oversee all aspects of hotel operations—from managing associates to ensuring guest satisfaction at every level. I am honored to have received the prestigious Hampton Award by Hilton, a recognition that reflects my dedication, commitment, and love for the work I do every day.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to take care of your team members because they will take care of you. I’ve learned that true leadership is about service—when you support, value, and invest in your team, they naturally give their best in return. A motivated and respected team creates a positive work environment, delivers exceptional results, and builds lasting success for everyone involved.

My advice to young women entering the hospitality industry is to stay curious, confident, and committed to learning. This field is built on connection and service, so never underestimate the power of kindness, professionalism, and hard work. Seek out mentors, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—every challenge is an opportunity to grow. I also want to empower young women by sharing the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained throughout my journey. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with resilience, consistency, and a genuine passion for people, you can build a fulfilling and impactful career. Remember, you belong in every room you walk into, and your voice and perspective are valuable.

The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are creativity, connection, and balance. I express my creativity through art and crafting, which inspires fresh ideas and a positive mindset in my professional life. I value building genuine connections with my team, guests, and loved ones, as meaningful relationships are the foundation of success and happiness. Traveling and hiking help me maintain balance, offering new perspectives and a sense of renewal that keeps me grounded and motivated in everything I do.