3 minute read
Southern Hotel & The Greenwood: Lisa Condrey Ward
LISA CONDREY WARD:
LEADING WITH VISION AND PASSION AT THE SOUTHERN HOTEL
CAN YOU SHARE YOUR BACKGROUND, INSPIRATION FOR YOUR CAREER, AND WHAT MAKES YOUR COMPANY UNIQUE?
My journey with the hotel began with a deep-rooted passion for historic preservation and a desire to revitalize a significant piece of Covington’s heritage. With a background in renovating historic buildings, I recognized the potential of the Southern Hotel to serve as an economic hub once again for downtown.
However, I knew that simply creating another hotel wouldn’t suffice; it had to be distinctive and cater to both transient guests and the local community. This inspired me to break away from conventional thinking and push boundaries to redefine the hotel experience.
Despite the challenges, maintaining steadfast commitment to our vision was pivotal throughout the renovation process. Our perseverance paid off, leading to the tremendous success the Southern Hotel has enjoyed over the past decade. As we approach our 10th anniversary since reopening, we’re eager to celebrate this achievement with the community that has supported us.
The upcoming anniversary party on June 1, 2024, serves as a testament to our journey and the integral role the community has played in our success. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our rich history while also looking ahead to a promising future. Additionally, the announcement of the Summer House expansion signifies our continued commitment to growth and innovation, further enhancing downtown Covington’s vibrancy.
Join us in celebrating the Southern Hotel’s unique charm firsthand at our anniversary party—tickets available on our website. As we move forward, we’re committed to honoring the hotel’s legacy while seizing new opportunities.
HOW DO YOU APPROACH TEAM MANAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION TO ENSURE A POSITIVE AND INCLUSIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT?
My approach to team management centers on inspiration and empowerment. I prioritize respect, provide necessary tools, and foster an inclusive environment where every voice is valued. I steer clear of micromanagement, focusing instead on enhancing the guest experience, building loyalty, and nurturing creativity within the team. Empowering team members to take ownership and encouraging collaboration creates a positive, thriving atmosphere for all.
WHAT SKILLS OR EXPERIENCES DO YOU BELIEVE HAVE BEEN CRUCIAL TO YOUR SUCCESS IN YOUR CAREER?
My background in civil litigation equipped me with crucial skills in critical thinking and problemsolving, essential for navigating the business world. Yet, it’s my passion for design and development that propels me forward. This blend of legal acumen and creative vision has been key to success at the Southern Hotel and beyond, allowing me to approach challenges with confidence and innovation.
WHAT ARE SOME KEY LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY, BOTH PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY?
One key lesson I’ve learned is: “If something is easy, it’s probably not worth doing. If you have a dream or an idea, you must be prepared to sacrifice a lot to achieve it. But if you can dream it - you can do it.” This motto embodies the resilience and determination that have guided me through challenges and successes. Whether personally or professionally, I’ve found that success demands dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
