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.
Chris Skelding was recently hired as director of sales, marketing and events at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino.
1. What are you looking forward to the most in your new role as director of sales, marketing, and events?
This new role is exciting for me not only because I’m coming to an amazing destination, but because we have an amazing team here of event professionals, consistently ranked top in the company. Their creative ideas, attention to detail and passion for the region are why groups love working with them, and I’m excited for the amazing things we’re going to accomplish together.
2. How do you think past experiences have prepared you for this role?
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for quite some time at a variety of domestic and international properties. This experience has not only given me a great wealth of best practices to fall back on, but it also helps me have an open mind when it comes to new ideas and ways to help our meeting planners and guests have the best experience possible.
3. How did you get into the industry?
I started working in hospitality at the age of 14 when I worked at my local country club in Indiana. I loved meeting new people, organizing events and tournaments, and most importantly, helping people have fun. This carried me through college (and helped me pay for it!) until I landed my first hotel job at Hyatt Regency Chicago in 1999.
4. What are you hoping to achieve in your new role?
I’m hoping to continue to spread the message that Tahoe meetings are not your average meetings. You can meet on a Catamaran or accomplish your entire meeting purpose with guided sessions in the mountains. North Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination, and I can’t wait to show to clients that they can create an enjoyable, memorable and effective experience here with us that their guests won’t soon forget.
5. What do you enjoy most about the industry?
The people I work with and get to meet every day. From incentive meetings to corporate retreats, weddings to anniversary parties, I love hearing people’s stories and what brought them to Tahoe. I’m personable – I love connecting with our guests!
