Hyde Park Hospitality, LLC’s Post

As we wrap up Women’s History Month, Hyde Park Hospitality, LLC is proud to spotlight Kenyotta Smith, Office Manager, at our partner account Hilton O’Hare Hotel. Kenyotta has a proven track record in the hospitality industry and joined HPH in 2018. What is your role with Hyde Park Hospitality?  As office manager, I serve a key role in the execution of operational excellence, ensuring that our teams and guests experience the highest level of service. My role bridges leadership, service, and culture, embodying HPH's core values of service, hospitality, respect, integrity, and diversity. I ensure that the heartbeat of our office runs smoothly, while supporting partnerships like our collaboration with Hilton.  How did you get into this field?  My path into hospitality management was driven by my passion for leadership, problem-solving, and fostering a sense of community within organizations. I've always thrived in environments where operational strategy meets a people first approach. How has working at Hyde Park Hospitality impacted your life?  HPH has sharpened my leadership skills and expanded my perspectives on service and excellence. I've grown alongside a team that embraces diversity and inclusion, fosters innovation, and upholds the belief that hospitality is not just about service- it's about making people feel seen and valued. What would you like to share about your leadership?  As a Black woman in leadership, I bring a unique blend of resilience, empathy, and strategy to every role I take on. My lived experiences have empowered me to lead with compassion and tenacity while advocating for diversity, equity, and representation. What is it like being a woman in your industry?  Being a woman in hospitality & operations means navigating spaces that are evolving but still have room for growth. I've learned to turn challenges into opportunities- to lead with the mindset of inclusivity and innovation. I am proud to be a part of that movement within HPH and the broader hospitality industry. What advice on leadership can you share?  Lead with conviction but stay rooted in humility and empathy. Build your network and don't shy away from bringing your authentic self to the table. True leadership is about uplifting others while setting a high standard for excellence. Anything else you would like to share?   Outside of work, I am dedicated to running nonprofit initiatives focused on community development, youth empowerment, and women's leadership. I am also a proud mother, a Chicago native who enjoys cooking, exploring the city's culture, and finding balance through wellness and mindfulness. We are proud to have shared the inspiring stories of several incredible female leaders at Hyde Park Hospitality. Their dedication, passion, and leadership continue to shape our industry and make a lasting impact. To learn more about Hyde Park Hospitality visit our website: http://bit.ly/3Zv8QYz #womenshistorymonth2025 #womeninhospitality #hphcares