Dawn Gallagher: The Inspiring Journey to President of Crescent Hotels & Resorts

Dawn Gallagher

By: Steve Turk

We are thrilled to hear the announcement that Dawn Gallagher, a past guest on our podcast, has been promoted to President of Crescent Hotels & Resorts. This remarkable achievement is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and passion for the hospitality industry. Dawn’s journey to this prestigious role is both inspiring and enlightening. Here, we share some highlights from her path to success and key insights from her time on our show.

A Journey of Dedication and Excellence

Dawn Gallagher’s career in the hospitality industry is a story of perseverance and excellence. Starting from humble beginnings, she worked her way up through the ranks, always demonstrating an unwavering commitment to quality and service. Her journey has been marked by numerous milestones, including key leadership positions and innovative contributions to the industry.

During her tenure at various renowned hospitality brands, Dawn has been instrumental in driving growth, enhancing guest experiences, and implementing cutting-edge strategies. Her ability to adapt to changing market conditions and her strategic vision have been pivotal in her career progression.

Early Beginnings: A Foundation in Hospitality

Dawn’s introduction to the hospitality industry began in her childhood, helping out at her grandparents' motel in California. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for the industry. Reflecting on her first job, she shared, “I started there, not very successfully, but it was the first time I looked at hospitality differently”​​.

Her formal entry into the industry came during college, where she gained hands-on experience at the Phoenix Park Hotel in Washington, DC. It was there that she met her future husband and found her niche in hospitality marketing. “Every part that I went through, I knew more and more this is exactly what I wanted to do moving forward”​​.

Rising Through the Ranks: Leadership and Learning

Dawn’s first significant leadership role was as the Reservations Manager at the Westin Waltham in the late 1980s. Opening a new hotel was a challenging yet rewarding experience, where she learned valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork. “You learn from those mistakes. You learn that you can't paint with a broad brush. Everybody has to be handled individually”​​.

Her journey continued with a pivotal role at the Omni, where she transitioned from Director of Reservations to Director of Sales. This position honed her skills in managing large teams and navigating complex operational challenges. “My first year was a challenge because I was managing the way that I'd managed for the last seven or eight years, and this was different”​​.

Embracing New Challenges: The Starwood Era

Dawn’s career took a significant leap forward when she joined Starwood Hotels & Resorts. As the company was undergoing rapid expansion, she played a crucial role in establishing its revenue management systems. “We were looking for a better approach and how to build demand. I brought a little bit more of an education and a sales approach to it”​​.

Her innovative approach and ability to foster strong relationships with directors of sales and marketing set her apart. She was soon promoted to Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, overseeing a large portfolio of hotels from Washington, DC, to Florida. Her ability to adapt and lead in diverse environments was instrumental in her success.

A New Chapter: Leading Crescent Hotels

After a successful stint at Interstate Hotels & Resorts, where she served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Dawn joined Crescent Hotels & Resorts in 2016. Her decision to take on this new challenge was driven by her desire to continue growing and contributing to the industry. “I’m in my dream job. I have a team that is my family, and we all believe in trusting each other to drive the success of the company”​​.

As President of Crescent Hotels, Dawn Gallagher embodies the values of hard work, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to hospitality. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of mentorship and continuous learning.

We congratulate Dawn on her well-deserved promotion and look forward to seeing the continued success and innovation she will bring to Crescent Hotels. Her story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring hospitality professionals.