Lauralee Shapiro,CMP, CIS, 54
Global Account Executive, ConferenceDirect, Orlando
What I do:
I focus on hotel site search and contract negotiations for meetings and incentives. In 2020, I adapted and expanded my services to include virtual/hybrid meetings as well as individual incentive travel reward planning.
How I got here:
I spent almost two years backpacking around the world right after high school. This led me to a career in the travel industry. It has taken me from restaurant management in a world-class sports stadium to DMC sales/operations in the Caribbean to hotel convention sales in the No. 1 destination in the U.S., and now sourcing with an industry-leading intermediary.
What I am excited to be working on right now:
I am excited that my customers are ready to start planning. No more cancellations and rebooks, but new RFPs for 2022 and beyond.
What I do outside of work:
I am on the incoming board for the MPI Greater Orlando as director of chapter collaboration. I am on the current board for SITE Florida & Caribbean as the VP of events.
My greatest career accomplishment:
Earning my CMP in 2011. So many factors were against me, yet I persevered and met my goal. Remaining relevant and in business during a global pandemic through continuing education and adaption.
Favorite vacation destination:
My family cottage on the lake in Canada's Muskoka, Ontario.
Public figure I admire most:
Amanda Gorman, the poet laureate who spoke at the inauguration in January 2021, touched me deeply. Her ability to articulate a message of hope and unity through her words was beautiful and inspiring at the same time.
Facebook: LauraleeShapiroHospitalityPro
Twitter: @hospitalitypro2
