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Growing up fully immersed in a culinary family, Katherine developed a deep passion for the hospitality industry. Throughout her career, she has held various roles in purchasing and logistics which led her to join Trump Hotels in 2011 as the Purchasing Manager for the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas. Her success in Las Vegas awarded her the coveted Manager of the Year in 2013 amongst her colleagues. Shortly thereafter, she joined the Trump Hotels corporate team to optimize critical spending categories and create global alignment as the brand’s first Corporate Manager of Purchasing.
In 2018, Katherine was a finalist for Hotel Interactive’s “Lodging Industry Elite Awards” Brand Purchasing Executive of the Year. As she continued her career with Trump Hotels, her role expanded to also oversee procurement for both private and public golf clubs in the portfolio and engaging in special projects. Today, Katherine is the VP of Global Procurement for Trump Hotels where she leads strategic sourcing and R&D, implements OS&E brand standards, and manages the company’s GPO partnership for 17 diverse properties including hotel, resort, and golf operations.
Could you provide an overview of your role and responsibilities within the company?
As the VP of Global Procurement for Trump Hotels, I lead strategic sourcing and R&D, implement OS&E brand standards, and manage the company’s GPO partnership for 17 diverse properties including hotel, resort, and golf operations.
What are some of the key challenges you face?
We as an industry are challenged by the decline in experienced labor that has impacted key purchasing positions from buyers and office support all the way to the receiving dock. The good news is that demand for leisure travel is again strong, generating many open opportunities for employment.
What would you say are some of the futuristic trends that will have an impact in the next 18-24months?
We will continue to see technology developed with more A.I. and smart mobile applications which might become the new industry standard for select brands and hotels in the future. These tools can have a positive impact on guest satisfaction and enhance service levels when used to support operations without removing the personal human connection. I also anticipate an increase of sustainable products to market and a sharper focus on eco-friendly practices by manufacturers that support our industry.
What advice would you give to young professionals who are interested in pursuing a similar career, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in this field?
I believe hospitality can be one of the most rewarding and personally fulfilling industries out there. Young professionals with a passion for travel and service will be well-positioned to carry on the torch of service for the next generation.
“We are a “people-focused” industry, so authenticity goes a long way. Finally, relationship-building internally and externally will create networking opportunities and solid business partnerships.”
Hospitality purchasing and procurement is generally a “back of house” role and rarely
guest-facing. Their responsibility is not to serve the guests directly but to support those who do. I strongly recommend honing in and developing three soft skills for success: communication, negotiation, and networking.
While most tend to focus on their written and verbal skills, which are important, being a great listener is equally valuable to being a great communicator. For negotiation, it is critical to develop a style that complements you individually. We are a “people-focused” industry, so authenticity goes a long way. Finally, relationship-building internally and externally will create networking opportunities and solid business partnerships.
