Brian Payne, 38, works in Las Vegas, as senior sales executive at Gaylord Rockies. As a 2018 40 Under 40 honoree, Payne discusses his passion for the events industry.
What I do: I represent
Gaylord Rockies for the Southern California and Arizona markets.
How I got here: After 11 plus years in luxury sales at Wynn and Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, I was presented with the opportunity to work for Gaylord Resorts. Moving to Gaylord has been the best decision I have made in my career.
Greatest career accomplishment: I am most proud that a majority of my past clients I now consider friends. I strive to make deals where everyone feels comfortable and excited at the end.
Impressive stats: I have been lucky enough to be part of three opening teams in my career. I love the energy, drive, and end goals that are laid out for an opening team.
Specific improvement I’ve made: I am a huge believer in mentoring and have brought those opportunities to my organizations in the past. I have consistently tried to have a mentee and a mentor at the same time. This allows not only for personal growth, but growing other’s careers as well.
What I’m working on now: We are hard at work preparing to open Gaylord Rockies for Group Business in February 2019. It’s amazing to be part of a team with a singular focus that not only knows how to book business professionally but has more fun doing it than anyone else.
What I do outside of work: I spend as much time as I can with my wife
Cheryl, and daughters Everly (3) and Sadie (1). When I do get some free time, I am typically on the golf course.
