Linda Westgate

Linda Westgate serves as the Complex General Manager for both The Hotel at the University of Maryland and the CAMBRiA Hotel College Park. She has been in this role since August 2020, after joining Southern Management Companies in 2018. Her career in hospitality began as a front-desk clerk, evolving through various positions before reaching her current managerial role.14

Professional Background

• Education: Initially pursued a degree in political science with aspirations of becoming an attorney, but transitioned into the hospitality industry, which she found to be fulfilling and dynamic.
• Experience: Westgate has worked in major markets across the United States, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston. This diverse experience has equipped her with a broad understanding of the hospitality landscape.1

Responsibilities

As a general manager, Westgate's duties encompass a wide range of activities:

• Operations Management: Overseeing daily operations, sales, and finance.
• Community Engagement: She serves as the chairman of the board for Experience Prince George's, focusing on destination marketing for the area.
• Team Leadership: Emphasizes team collaboration and guest interaction to enhance service quality.13

Impact During COVID-19

Westgate adapted to significant changes during the pandemic, shifting from primarily business travel to accommodating leisure travelers. This transition was marked by innovative strategies to maintain occupancy rates, including servicing groups like the Maryland National Guard during peak pandemic periods.1

Her leadership style focuses on personal engagement with guests and fostering a supportive environment for her team, which she believes is crucial for success in hospitality.12