Erica Maldonado
Erica M. is a seasoned executive support professional with over two decades of experience in hospitality and corporate leadership environments. Currently serving as the Executive Assistant to the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain & Business Intelligence at Ashley Furniture Industries, Erica brings a results-driven mindset and a reputation for operational excellence. Her role positions her at the intersection of strategic business support and cross-functional collaboration, where she is instrumental in driving initiatives that support innovation and efficiency across two critical divisions of the company. Known for her poise, discretion, and strong interpersonal skills, Erica thrives in high-pressure settings and is deeply valued for her ability to foster trust and transparency at all levels of leadership.
Before joining Ashley, Erica spent nearly 11 years at Marriott International in various leadership support roles. Most recently, she supported the Area General Manager and executive teams for the JW Marriott & Tampa Marriott Water Street Collection, contributing to collaborating thru hotel renovations for the Tampa Marriott Water Street and multiple pre-opening projects including the JW Marriott Tampa, The Tampa EDITION, and JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort. Her professional foundation began in luxury hospitality roles, where she honed her attention to detail, communication skills, and commitment to excellence. A graduate of the University of Puerto Rico with a BA in Business Administration Management, Erica is bilingual in English and Spanish and is passionate about building inclusive, high-performing teams. Her colleagues describe her as a visionary team player who leads with heart, integrity, and an unwavering work ethic.
• Universidad de Puerto Rico- B.A.
What do you attribute your success to?
As a Puerto Rican woman working in male-dominated industries, I’ve learned that success isn’t given—it’s earned through hard work, focus, and the courage to turn challenges into opportunities. Whether launching luxury hotels or leading executive operations, I stayed committed to my goals, trusted my process, and believed in my ability to rise. When you know your worth and stay true to your vision, you don’t just break barriers—you build new paths for others to follow.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The two most powerful pieces of advice I’ve ever received continue to shape my path. The first was being told I wasn’t experienced enough—a moment that ignited a fire in me. Instead of letting it hold me back, I used it as fuel to learn the unknown and rise higher than I ever imagined. The second was a reminder that ‘There’s always a tomorrow.’ It taught me to give myself grace, to embrace progress over perfection, and to approach each new day with renewed purpose. As a Latina navigating thru male-dominated industries, I’ve learned that resilience, self-belief, and compassion—for yourself and others—are the keys to building a meaningful and lasting career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself—your voice and your presence matter. Set realistic goals and expectations and stay focused on what truly fuels your growth. Silence the white noise; even negative experiences can teach you something valuable. Get organized—it’s not optional, it’s essential. Understand that body language speaks volumes, so make sure yours reflects confidence and authenticity. Be genuine, always tell the truth, and when you're called upon, offer thoughtful, structured advice rooted in experience. And never be afraid to be creative—your ideas are your power.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in our industry and today in your everyday life is trust—earning it, maintaining it, and navigating it across teams, leadership, stakeholders or whether is to family, friends your partner. But the opportunities? They’re endless. With innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, there’s no limit to what we can build and transform.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, courage, and faith are the pillars of everything I do. Integrity keeps me grounded in truth and accountability, courage pushes me to take bold steps even when the path is uncertain, and faith reminds me to trust the journey—especially when the outcome isn’t yet visible. These values guide how I lead, how I serve, and how I grow.
Locations
Ashley Furniture Industries
Tampa, FL 33607
Ashley Furniture Industries
1670 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33605