Her Story
About Maria
Maria P. Menendez is a hospitality sales and marketing professional with more than 14 years of experience spanning education, hospitality, and sales across leading properties in Puerto Rico and Florida. She currently serves as a Destination Sales Executive at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, where she plays a key role in supporting the sales team by coordinating and executing site inspections for prospective groups. In this capacity, she organizes room reservations, restaurant reservations, and on-property experiences to effectively showcase the resort and its offerings to potential clients, contributing to group conversion and revenue growth. Maria’s professional journey began in 2012 and has been shaped by both determination and adaptability. She graduated from an all-girls high school, an experience that strengthened her confidence and leadership, and later attended Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island to study Hospitality. She returned home due to illness brought on by the cold climate and later completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a specialization in Advertising at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in Puerto Rico. Alongside her academic journey, Maria has built a diverse career in education, hospitality, catering, and sales, developing a strong foundation in guest service, event execution, and client relationship management. Her passion for hospitality was inspired by a childhood dream of working at Disney and El Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico, a vision that has come full circle as she now considers the General Manager of El Conquistador one of her mentors. Maria is also a cancer survivor and actively supports cancer-related causes, including the American Cancer Society, reflecting her commitment to advocacy and community impact. She describes her career as one of resilience and purpose, shaped by personal challenges and professional growth, and values opportunities that can inspire and uplift others pursuing careers in hospitality and beyond.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Maria
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to believing in myself, embracing calculated risks, and learning and growing from my mistakes along the way. I have also been fortunate to have the guidance and support of peers and mentors who have encouraged me, challenged me, and consistently seen my potential even in moments of uncertainty. Their support, combined with my own resilience and commitment to continuous improvement, has been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to take risks, believe in myself, and go for opportunities without letting fear hold me back. I was also reminded that mistakes are part of growth and learning, and that no one is perfect we are all human navigating our own paths. That perspective has encouraged me to stay confident, resilient, and open to learning in every stage of my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to truly love what you do, as passion will sustain you through challenges and growth opportunities. Seek out mentors who can guide, support, and help you navigate your career path, while also being open to learning from every experience and person you encounter. Most importantly, always remember to pay it forward those in leadership today were once in your position, and sharing knowledge and support helps create a stronger path for the next generation.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The hospitality industry is often understated and misunderstood, despite its significant impact on the global economy and everyday experiences. One of the key challenges is shifting perceptions and helping others recognize hospitality as a dynamic and essential career field rather than solely a luxury service industry. At the same time, this presents a meaningful opportunity to educate and inspire others about the wide range of career paths available within tourism, events, and guest services, especially since hospitality touches nearly every community and is a vital part of how people connect, travel, and experience the world.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most in both my work and personal life are honesty, loyalty, kindness, empathy, and effective communication. I believe these principles are essential in building trust, maintaining strong relationships, and fostering a positive and respectful environment both professionally and personally.
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