South Shore CVA Welcomes New Director of Sales

Kristen-ThomasThe South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority is pleased to announce Kristen Thomas as the organization’s new Director of Sales.

In her new role, Thomas will be responsible for generating convention, association, corporate group and niche market leads. She will attend marketplaces and tradeshows to promote the South Shore as a travel destination for consumers and groups as well as handle sales calls, send out sales letters and collateral, refer convention services as needed and handle all client responsibilities. Thomas will also work with the local and state hospitality industry on a professional level to keep suppliers updated on convention and association leads.

Thomas is a graduate from Purdue University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality & Tourism Management.

Thomas brings with her 12 years of experience as a sales manager, operations manager and general manager within the hospitality industry. Upon graduating, Thomas began her career at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Hammond where she was responsible for creating and maintaining the hotel’s annual budget and sales and marketing plans. There Thomas also coordinated and contracted group room blocks and meetings for local clients.

From Residence Inn, Thomas went on to become a sales manager for Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza where her primary focus was on finding new religious meeting and event planners by means of teleprospecting and cold calling. She also booked room blocks and event space for groups of 50 rooms or less for all markets.

Prior to starting with the South Shore CVA, Thomas has been a sales manager at Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa in Michigan City. There her responsibilities broadened to include negotiating and managing contracts, working with planners to detail all aspects of events, and maintaining long-lasting relationships with existing clients.

Kristen joins the South Shore CVA team with a wealth of experience as a Director of Sales,” stated Speros Batistatos, president and CEO of the South Shore CVA. “We are confident that Kristen will help promote the South Shore as a premiere destination for conventions and meetings.”