Hotel Forty Five welcomes Kimberly Raphael as Director of Sales

03.04.2024 - 12:22 / traveldailynews.com / Vicky Karantzavelou

Kimberly Raphael brings extensive experience in corporate sales management to downtown boutique hotel

MACON, GA. – Hotel Forty Five, owned by IDP Properties and Mainsail Lodging & Development, has announced the appointment of Kimberly Raphael as Director of Sales of the 11-story boutique hotel in downtown Macon. In this role, Raphael will oversee all sales operations aimed at increasing revenue, fostering new and ongoing client relationships, and expanding community awareness of the historic 94-room property and its venues.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Kimberly to her new position in our historic hotel family,” said Gary W. Byrd, General Manager. “In addition to being familiar with our hotel and the market, she has a proven track record of driving sales with extensive knowledge of national sales, meetings, events, client management, and customer service, making her a valuable asset in her new role.”

Previously serving as the Human Resources Manager at Hotel Forty Five, Raphael is eager to re-enter the sales world, where she has spent the majority of her 25-year career. Her experience has spanned an impressive list of hotel brands, including Four Seasons, Hilton, and Marriott, with roles ranging from hotel sales management and corporate sales to restaurant service, hiring and training. Her notable positions include National Group Sales for Hilton Direct, Sales Manager for Marriott International’s Las Vegas Sales Office, Senior Dual Corporate Sales Manager at Marriott Courtyard and Residence Inn, and Director of Sales roles at both Springhill Suites Macon and Residence Inn Macon. Before joining Hotel Forty Five, Raphael led recruitment, training and team development as Talent and Culture Manager at Prime Hospitality, overseeing three Sonny’s BBQ restaurants.

Hotel Forty Five occupies one of downtown Macon’s historic high-rises at the intersection of Cherry and First Streets, and Cotton Avenue, sitting at an iconic angle for which the hotel is named. The hotel features a signature chef-driven restaurant, a sixth-floor rooftop bar and lounge, and an eclectic coffee and wine shop. More than a hotel, Hotel Forty Five is a cozy space to catch up with friends, make new ones or simply share the latest gossip.

Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.

She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.