Member Spotlight: Aimbridge Hospitality
The Plano Chamber membership team is thrilled to present our monthly Member Spotlights! Each month, we will be highlighting different Plano Chamber of Commerce members to continue connecting our members with each other and the Plano community at large.
The Plano Chamber would like to welcome and spotlight, Aimbridge Hospitality. Heather Wagemann, our Membership Engagement Manager, asked Vice President of Philanthropic Partnerships & Community Outreach, Emily Gerstner, a few questions about their business, membership, and role in the community.
1. What would you like readers to know about Aimbridge Hospitality and what you specialize in?
Aimbridge Hospitality is a leading, global hospitality company. Our global headquarters and hotel support center with over 600 associates is located here, in Plano, TX. We serve hotel owners who retain us to manage their hotels and provide for the guests who are staying at the property, while delivering support, expertise, and value to our owners. 2023 will be our 20th anniversary and we’re proud of our incredible growth . Our managed portfolio is currently around 1,500 properties worldwide; we’re in all 50 states, and over 20 countries. The hotels we manage are under well-known lodging brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and many more. We also operate unique independent and “lifestyle” hotels.
2. Why did you choose to join the Plano Chamber of Commerce?
As a global company headquartered right here in Plano, its important for us to stay connected and invested in our community. The Plano Chamber offers so many fantastic opportunities for our associates at every level of our company, from the YP group to the Women’s Division and the Executive Breakfast series, there is something for everyone. The team at the Plano Chamber does an EXCELLENT job of finding the best ways to get your company and employees engaged in just the right activities and/or initiatives. My personal favorite is the Women’s Division Luncheons- always fantastic speakers and great opportunities to meet other like-minded business professionals in our community.
3. Tell us about your involvement in the community.
From national partnerships to local support, Aimbridge and its associates are some of the most giving organizations and people I have known. I am touched by the stories I constantly receive from our hotel properties of how our associates are supporting their communities, from back-to-school supply drives, food drives and support of their many local initiatives. In addition, Aimbridge established Aimbridge Aid, a 501 (c)(3) charitable non-profit foundation, in 2020 as a direct response to the pandemic and to support our associates during times of need. Whether it is a family emergency or natural disaster, Aimbridge Aid has supported more than 2,200 associates since its inception and we are looking to do even more in the future.
4.What is your favorite part of your current work environment?
I love this question- so many things! There is so much energy, excitement and growth happening at Aimbridge. I am in a unique position in which I have the opportunity to serve both our corporate and field associates and I am looking forward to supporting our employees and the many communities we represent. During this time, I had the opportunity to work with associates at all levels and was continually impressed and motivated by their passion to make a genuine difference.
