These interviews are part of a series that highlights new hires within the industry. Have you recently started a new role or do you know someone who has? Submit your ideas to brittany.trevick@tigeroak.com.
Kristen Burr was recently hired as the business travel and entertainment sales manager for Fairmont Pittsburgh.
1. What are you looking forward to in your new role as business travel and entertainment sales manager at Fairmont Pittsburgh?
As a born and bred Floridian, I’m excited to get to know Pittsburgh and explore the city. Within my role, I’m looking forward to building business relationships and selling the Fairmont brand. My role is unique because I handle a diverse client base that includes both corporate clients and entertainment/celebrity guests, and I’m looking forward to working with both segments.
2. How do you think your past industry experience has prepared you for this role?
I’ve worked in a variety of hospitality positions before coming to Fairmont Pittsburgh—from theme parks to marketing companies. I’ve gotten to see the nuances of each sector and how they interact on a larger scale. The last year of my experience was focused heavily in the luxury segment, which has become a niche I love and excel in, making my transition to Fairmont Pittsburgh ideal.
3. What goals do you have in mind for the destination for this year and further down the line?
I want to see the perception of Pittsburgh continue to improve and attract more businesses, visitors and talented people. There has been so much positive press about Pittsburgh recently, and I want that momentum to continue. It’s exciting to be part of a company that is helping to position the city as a world-class destination. Also on my wish list—I’d love to see the Stanley Cup back in Pittsburgh next year. I was on property interviewing two days after the Penguins won, and the whole city was electric.
4. How did you get into the industry?
My mom is a travel agent, and I grew up traveling to incredible places, which encouraged my sense of adventure. Everyone always told me I needed to either be a lawyer or go into sales. Hospitality was a natural career path because of the endless possibilities and ability to make sincere personal connections, which is what I enjoy most about the industry.
5. What do you enjoy most about the organization?
Attention to detail is everything for me and from everything I’ve experienced, Fairmont excels at it. It makes for a great work environment when people pay attention to your preferences, and this transfers over into how employees interact with guests.
