LODGING LEADERS
October 28, 2015

029 | Student of the Industry: A Foot Soldier’s Journey with Chip Elbers

LODGING LEADERS

Chip is a hospitality veteran and he’s been serving the industry for more than 30 years. He’s done it all. From Dish Washer, to Front Desk Agent, Assistant General Manager, General Manager, Sales Manager, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Development Officer, and Vice President.

For the last half of the career, Chip faithfully served as Vice President and COO for America’s Best Franchising as the brand grew from just a few properties to a portfolio of nearly 300. In this role, Chip was responsible for the Company’s portfolio of brands, including Jameson Inns, America’s Best Inns, Country Hearth Inns, Budgetel Inns and 3 Palms Hotels and Resorts. He oversaw the development and implementation of operational programs and requirements and directed the Quality Assurance and Field Support programs, which included brand standards, brand compliance, property inspections, franchise administration and owner / franchisee relations.

In This Episode, Chip Talks About:

  • His career journey and how his “can do” attitude lead to great success in the hospitality industry. You don’t have to own a hotel or be the CEO to make an real impact.
  • How he moved from the back of the house to the front of the house; how he landed his first management position, and how he turned an underperforming asset around.
  • Building great teams and loyalty, not merely hiring staff, and empowering them to realize their full potential.
  • The acquisition process, and he shares his personal experience as an executive acquiring brands, and what it was like when ABF was acquired by Vantage last year.

Resources & Links

LODGING LEADERS
Back to Top