20 Questions With Jennifer York, Director, Global Sales and Corporate Hotel Sales, MGM Resorts International

Jennifer York is the director of global sales and corporate hotel sales for MGM Resorts International. She’s also a Women Leading Travel & Hospitality member! In this member spotlight, we asked Jennifer a series of questions about both her professional role and personal life, including the woman who inspires her, her leadership style, her advice for the next generation of female leaders, and much more.

1. What’s the best book you’ve read recently?
   Lately, I've been all about "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan. It's packed with practical techniques that can totally shift your perspective. Honestly, I find myself going back to it whenever I need a boost — like right now!
2. What do you love most about the industry?
   The passion that runs through it. I recently bumped into a former hotel salesperson at my daughter's school, and there was this undeniable connection we had — turns out, it was that shared love for hospitality. People in this field just have this incredible drive that you can’t help but admire.
3. What is something the community may be surprised to learn about you?
   I'm pretty much an open book. I can't think of anything that would surprise people! Haha!
4. What’s the toughest part of being in charge?
   The pressure we put on ourselves. It's easy to forget that we all juggle a ton of responsibilities, so it's important to give ourselves — and each other — some grace.
5. What personal skill or attribute do you believe is most responsible for your success?
   I really think my success stems from my early days as a 6 a.m. hotel café server in college (yeah, it was brutal!). That experience, along with my time as a cocktail waitress in the hotel lobby bar, laid the groundwork for my hospitality journey. From there, I moved into catering and then sales, which helped me understand the ins and outs of different departments.
6. What woman inspires you right now and why?
   Right now, my biggest inspiration is my mother-in-law. She truly is the heart of our family, always giving endless love and support to everyone around her. Her work in grief ministry shows just how special she is — it's a calling that takes a remarkable person!
7. What is one industry trend you’re closely tracking and why?
   One industry trend I’m really excited about is artificial intelligence. It’s a total game changer! I can’t wait to see how automation in hotels will help sales teams focus on personalizing their approach and really understanding client needs instead of getting bogged down by paperwork and manual processes.
8. What is one thing you look for when interviewing a job candidate?
   A smile! I know interviews can be nerve-wracking, but a genuine smile helps ease that tension and creates a more relaxed vibe. Plus, we could all use a bit more kindness in the world, and it starts with something as simple as a smile.
9. What’s something that you learned about yourself in the past year?
   I’ve learned a lot about my own resilience. Facing challenges head-on has shown me that I can adapt and grow in ways I never thought possible.
10. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
    “Recognize if you’re running away from something or running towards something.” It’s such a powerful reminder that the motivation behind our actions can shape our paths, both personally and professionally.
11. What values are most important to you as a leader?
    As a leader, setting clear expectations is key. I really value fairness, even when it might mean I get less. When everyone understands what’s expected, we can all own our part and rely on each other to get things done.
12. What’s the most important thing people should know about you?
    I absolutely love our industry and the community we serve. It’s those “WOW” moments in hospitality that remind me why I’m so passionate about helping others and staying connected to what truly matters.
13. Do you prefer to work in the office, at home, or hybrid? Why?
    I’m a fan of working from home because it lets me serve my family, but I also love hitting the road to visit my clients and team. It’s the best of both worlds!
14. Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to? Why?
    South Africa. I can’t stop dreaming about Camps Bay with fresh sushi and that amazing South African wine — just take me back!
15. What is the top item on your bucket list?
    Traveling with my family again. My youngest just turned three, so traveling is now doable again for us. I can't wait to create more unforgettable memories together!
16. What do you do to recharge?
    My husband and I love our season tickets to Broadway Austin. We make it a monthly date night to catch the shows, and we even take the kids when it’s appropriate. It’s such a special luxury that creates lifelong memories for our family.
17. What is your biggest accomplishment?
    My marriage and my relationship with my husband. We’ve been friends since 2000 but didn’t start dating until 2013. Turning that friendship into a loving marriage and raising kids together has been hard work, but it’s absolutely worth it!
18. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
    Always support each other and lift someone up along the way. We talk about it a lot, but it really doesn’t happen often enough. We need to change that.
19. What gets you up in the morning?
    My passion for my work and the opportunity to make a positive impact. At MGM Resorts, we call it "Focused on What Matters," highlighting our dedication to helping others in all aspects of our work. Whether it’s choosing client gifts or supporting diverse-owned businesses, we always look for options that include a charity or give-back component. I carry this approach into my volunteer work at my kids' school and even when selecting personal gifts for the holidays. Spoiler alert: this year’s family gifts are tamales from our local Optimist Club, complete with all the fixings! Every chance to help others really does make a difference.
20. What do you like most about being a member of Women Leading Travel & Hospitality?
    The annual conference is just fantastic! I’ve attended both events, and it’s the one trip of the year that’s all about me. Even though I’m in sales, this conference is focused on my personal growth and I don’t feel like I must be “on.” It’s a few days of learning, connecting with incredible women, and building genuine relationships.