WOMEN IN TOURISM: Lee-Ann Godfrey- aiming high

 

Lee-Ann Godfrey is one among Jamaica’s youngest managers in the tourism industry, she joined Spanish Court Hotel Jan 2009 as Assistant Manager promoted to General Manager in March 2009.

Godfrey developed an interest for the industry early in life, “My mother Carlene Esterine worked with Air Jamaica for 40 years and during this time I was able to travel and meet people of different cultures- thus developing my love of the industry and interacting with people,” she informed.  

During high school she wanted to be a pilot like her father, but she went on to do Tourism Management from the University of the West Indies.

Godfrey, who was recently engaged, said that she has always followed the traits of hard work, commitment and dedication.

“The hospitality industry is one that is demanding and in order to have it as a career there has to be an innate love for the industry and customer service,” she said.  

Along her professional career, Godfrey said that the most valuable lesson that she has learnt is that the road to success is always under construction.  “The hospitality industry requires constant innovation in order to remain unique and successful,” she said.

Having the opportunity to work in landmark properties – Beaches Boscobel (part of the Sandals Group) and Spanish Court Hotel, Godfrey where gained invaluable experience as a part of the opening team.  

She said that to date, her mother is the greatest influencer in her life. “My inspiration comes from my strong desire and will to succeed,” Godfrey said. “My mother has been the greatest influence in my life- her beliefs, discipline and integrity have all been true life inspirations.”

The young manager is making all efforts to perfect her professional skills and also continue to leave an indelible mark in the industry. Her dream, she said, is to an entrepreneur “I want to eventually operate my own business.”