September 20, 2022
SHL Alumni Spotlight - Leigh Comis
Leigh Comis is the regional director of sales for Aimbridge Hospitality. We recently caught up with her to speak about her career and the role SHL has had in it.
“Twelve years of working in the industry since graduation allowed me to move into my current position as Regional Director of Sales for Aimbridge Hospitality. However, I wouldn’t have been able to get to where I am without the initial foundation of exposure to the industry from our professors in the School of Hospitality Leadership.”
“Introductions and connections are the basis of any sales role, but our professors connected us with people in the industry that we may not have been able to connect with on our own. For example, the connection from Dr. O’Halloran to the food and beverage director at The Broadmoor Hotel allowed an interview for the position. With hundreds of applicants, I stood out due to my tie to East Carolina University. My career pathway here, which allowed me to experience different aspects of hospitality management and where I ultilmately landed in the sales office.”
“I’ve had the pleasure of working in both full-service and select-service properties and found that through COVID-19, my love for the industry only grew. It was back to front desk shifts and taking a housekeeping board at a very busy beach hotel. Still, it allowed me to remember the ‘why’ of the business – to provide exceptional service and an inviting place to stay, even in the hospitality industry’s darkest times.”
“I look forward to continued growth as I complete the Master of Science in Sustainability, Tourism and Hospitality degree.”