Connections Housing, a meeting management, convention housing and travel services leader, appointed an industry veteran to the newly created position of vice president, strategic sales.
Supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy, Judy Kent will focus on new business development in the Chicago market as well as key account opportunities in the metro D.C. and Mid-Atlantic region. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, she will report to Connections Chief Innovation Officer Brad Weaber.
“We are excited to welcome Judy to our growing team,” stated Brad Weaber. “Chicago, DC and the entire Mid-Atlantic region are pivotal growth markets for us and Judy is the perfect candidate for this important new position. Her long-term industry relationships, extensive experience and energetic leadership style promise to help us reach our goals.”
Kent brings more than 20 years of hospitality, meeting, convention sales and business development experience to her new position. She comes to Connections from Experient, A Maritz Travel Company, where she served as strategic sales executive, association sales since 2005. Previously, she was regional director, Midwest/West convention sales out of Chicago for Tourism Toronto.
Throughout her career she also held senior sales management positions with The Traveller, Inc., Intercontinental Hotel and Residence Inn By Marriott. An active member of numerous industry organizations, including ASAE, PCMA, CESSE and IAEE, Kent has also served as a guest speaker for industry events as well as student hospitality programs at various colleges.
