Tarnisha Johnson
Tarnisha Johnson is an accomplished hospitality professional based in Miami, Florida, with nearly a decade of experience spanning front desk operations, guest relations, and sales management. After discovering her passion for hospitality at Miami-Dade College, she pursued further studies at Florida International University, earning a degree in Hospitality Administration and Management. Her educational foundation, combined with hands-on experience, laid the groundwork for a career defined by dedication to guest satisfaction and relationship-building.
Over the years, Tarnisha has progressed through diverse roles within the hospitality industry, including Sales Marketing Coordinator at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Hotel Nautilus, and Area Group Sales Manager for AC & Aloft Hotel Miami Aventura. She has played a pivotal role in property openings, notably the AC and Element in Miami Brickell, and currently serves as a Sales Executive at Marriott International. In this role, she manages sales funnels, supports sales managers, and actively develops business for both business transient and group accounts, consistently exceeding budget targets.
Tarnisha’s professional philosophy centers on exceeding guest expectations and cultivating lasting client relationships. Known for her personable approach, she builds strong connections with clients who often remark on her ability to make them feel valued and understood. Passionate about her craft, she continues to grow her expertise in hospitality sales, combining strategic business development with a commitment to exceptional customer service, all while contributing to the success of the teams and properties she serves.
• Florida International University - B.S.
• Feeding the homeless since 2023 - provides clothing and dry food
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to just focusing on the customer and not worrying about what's going on around you. You have to stay focused on the job and stay to yourself, and just come to work ready to do what needs to be done. Even though the work environment could be toxic, you just worry about yourself and keep being the way that you are, and people will finally see it. I'm all about being a team, and even when I don't have a team and feel defeated, I still keep going.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've received came from Anastasia Reddy, who brought me on to my current job. She taught me that there's no limit - you could keep going, and what's for you is for you. She showed me to just keep at it and keep being the way that you are, and people will finally see it. She's such a team player and a great leader and teacher. You can learn so much from her, and she just makes me want to go higher and higher. Even though the work environment could be toxic, she taught me to just worry about yourself and stay focused.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When young women ask me for advice about entering this industry, I always encourage them to consider sales. I genuinely enjoy this field because it allows you to connect with people, build relationships, and engage in meaningful interactions every day. Attending networking events, meeting new clients, and fostering those connections is incredibly rewarding. I especially love creating memorable experiences for group accounts—finding ways to make each client feel valued and appreciated. Once you learn the ropes, it becomes a dynamic and fulfilling career path.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is the ability to build strong, lasting relationships with clients and colleagues, which can have a significant impact on business growth and customer satisfaction. The challenge is staying adaptable and creative in an environment that’s always evolving, especially as client expectations continue to rise. Outside of work, I enjoy interior decorating—it’s a creative outlet that allows me to bring the same attention to detail and personal touch to my home as I do in my professional life.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me are making guests happy and exceeding their needs. I'm all about building relationships - that's what drives me in my work. I believe in being a team player, because I'm all about being a team. In my personal life, I value giving back to the community. Since 2023, I've been going out to feed the homeless, providing clothing and dry food, making sure they have what they need no matter what the weather is. I do this by myself and can serve up to 50 people at a time.
Locations
Marriott International
Miami, FL 33147