Insights From the C-Suite: Ashly Balding, Chief Sales Officer, ALHI

As part of a new, members-only series, Women Leading Travel & Hospitality is asking industry executives about their professional journeys, mentorship, how they stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends, how they take care of themselves, and so much more. This week, insight comes from Ashly Balding, executive vice president and chief sales officer of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI). Women Leading Travel & Hospitality: Can you share a specific instance where you successfully navigated a major change or challenge, highlighting the key lessons learned and how they shaped your leadership approach? Ashly Balding: There are many instances; however, the most recent was on Oct. 26, 2023. An angel told me I needed to see a cardiologist. On Nov. 8, 2023, I discovered that I had a severe leak in my heart. Over 60 percent of my blood flow was regurgitating back into my heart, making it work much harder while providing my body with only 40 percent of new oxygen flow.