Diana Bernardo

As a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, I’m proud to represent MEWS, a leader in property management systems, and bring its cutting-edge technology to midmarket hotels and management groups operating three or more properties.

In this role, I am:
   •   Building my pipeline from scratch in a new and growing Midwest market, focusing on AR, AZ, CO, IA, ID, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NM, OK, PA, SD, UT, WY
   •   Maintaining consistent high activity levels… Show more

As a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, I’m proud to represent MEWS, a leader in property management systems, and bring its cutting-edge technology to midmarket hotels and management groups operating three or more properties.

In this role, I am:
   •   Building my pipeline from scratch in a new and growing Midwest market, focusing on AR, AZ, CO, IA, ID, IN, KS, MI, MN, MO, MT, ND, NE, NM, OK, PA, SD, UT, WY
   •   Maintaining consistent high activity levels, leveraging strategic prospecting to identify opportunities and establish MEWS as a trusted partner in my territory.
   •   Attending industry events in-market sponsored by MEWS, immersing myself in the local hospitality community to expand my outreach and foster relationships with key stakeholders.
   •   Collaborating with hotel operators and management groups to showcase how MEWS’ innovative solutions transform operations and enhance the guest experience.
   •   Developing tailored strategies to meet and exceed sales targets, with a focus on long-term growth and meaningful client impact.

With my passion for driving business success and deep expertise in B2B sales, I’m excited to help hospitality leaders unlock new levels of operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Let’s connect to explore how MEWS can revolutionize your hotel operations!
Show less

With quarantine came a rediscovered love for cooking every night (it had been years since I did that!) and finding new recipes. When I booked an online Pampered Chef party through a friend and received lots of fun products for free, I realized it was something I could share. I have many PC products that have stood the test of time and helped me make amazing meals for my family. The quality of the products is something I am proud of representing. My hospitality career experience as a reward &… Show more

With quarantine came a rediscovered love for cooking every night (it had been years since I did that!) and finding new recipes. When I booked an online Pampered Chef party through a friend and received lots of fun products for free, I realized it was something I could share. I have many PC products that have stood the test of time and helped me make amazing meals for my family. The quality of the products is something I am proud of representing. My hospitality career experience as a reward & recognition expert has me full of ideas with how to help boost your team's morale! No matter the budget, I can help you create a fun and rewarding program for your business using practical gifts they will actually use. This is my "side hustle" and I am staying connected with PC to help my connections with their culinary needs! Show less

This historic property, dating back to 1864, hired me to develop their Brand Standards, with heavy concentration on the hotel front desk & housekeeping operations. I worked closely with the General Manager and Team Members to ascertain their training needs, and helped finesse the operating procedures. I worked with vendors that I had relationships with from my previous properties to get samples for amenities and chose on-brand items that spoke to the French Country, boutique vibe. I worked as… Show more

This historic property, dating back to 1864, hired me to develop their Brand Standards, with heavy concentration on the hotel front desk & housekeeping operations. I worked closely with the General Manager and Team Members to ascertain their training needs, and helped finesse the operating procedures. I worked with vendors that I had relationships with from my previous properties to get samples for amenities and chose on-brand items that spoke to the French Country, boutique vibe. I worked as liaison with external partners on new software trials for a new PMS and accounting system. As part of the reopening tasks I conducted rate surveys, presented a new rate strategy, and worked with the GM on creating wedding rates to maximize revenue during peak demand.
I completed a thorough punch list of the property to include every guest room, and identified areas that needed to be brought up to code to include ADA modifications and construction deficiencies.
I assisted in the property signage design and program with another vendor I worked with when I was with the Hilton Brand of hotels. I conducted Zoom interviews in our search for new management staff, and helped to procure the post-COVID cleaning program for the hotel.
Show less

I was chosen to open the world's first Cartoon Network Hotel, and became responsible for all of the pre-opening activities of the hotel and coordinating such with the construction team. I recruited, trained and developed a team of "Cartoon Crew" all-stars and conducted the 3 hour CN-developed Brand Training on the company's values and culture as well as the history of cartoons. This was one of the most fun things I have ever done in my hotel career! I developed the sales and marketing plan and… Show more

I was chosen to open the world's first Cartoon Network Hotel, and became responsible for all of the pre-opening activities of the hotel and coordinating such with the construction team. I recruited, trained and developed a team of "Cartoon Crew" all-stars and conducted the 3 hour CN-developed Brand Training on the company's values and culture as well as the history of cartoons. This was one of the most fun things I have ever done in my hotel career! I developed the sales and marketing plan and conducted field sales calls alongside the sales team I was responsible for hiring and training. Another fun part of my job was working with the Cartoon Network and Rhetroactive design teams to ensure the conceptual vision came to life to delight & inspire our guests. I even named a few areas of the hotel myself - the "Bearista Cafe" and the "Land of P'Oool".
I developed the brand standards for this new, independent hotel to include choosing all room supplies and uniforms, building the hotel menu, coordinating the hotel activities, and standard operating procedures. Working with Lands' End, I created a uniform program for every department that was fun, comfortable and on-brand. I also developed a name tag program so that the Cartoon Crew could watch, study and certify in different cartoons and receive a pin on their custom name tag, to make learning fun and help them engage with Guests. This job had a lot of "character" and it was a great experience! Show less

In April 2018, I spearheaded the successful opening of a renovation project, this 149-room full-service hotel. My leadership ensured that the hotel opened on time as scheduled, setting the stage for a seamless launch. Under my guidance, the hotel achieved outstanding results during its first IHG Quality Assurance Inspection, scoring between 98% and 100% on life safety measures and brand standards.

A key aspect of my role was hiring and training all staff according to the exacting… Show more

In April 2018, I spearheaded the successful opening of a renovation project, this 149-room full-service hotel. My leadership ensured that the hotel opened on time as scheduled, setting the stage for a seamless launch. Under my guidance, the hotel achieved outstanding results during its first IHG Quality Assurance Inspection, scoring between 98% and 100% on life safety measures and brand standards.

A key aspect of my role was hiring and training all staff according to the exacting standards of the Hotel Indigo brand. I took full responsibility for hotel operations, overseeing budgeting, profitability, staff training, hiring, inventory management, ordering, and forecasting. I became proficient in Opera at this hotel. I developed the sales and marketing plan, and conducted pre-opening sales blitzes with the sales team for brand awareness. I helped secure several key accounts before the hotel opened its doors!

At Hotel Indigo, we believe in travel that immerses you in the local experience. Our properties are not just places to stay; they are vibrant hubs within their communities, blending modern design with authentic local flair. From our locally-inspired menus to the artwork adorning our walls, every aspect reflects the unique character of the neighborhood.

I also helped launch RiverRun, a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner featuring locally-sourced dishes. Creating the menu with local farms and partners was a joy. Show less

• 300 room newly renovated, full service resort
• Responsible for all hotel operations in absence of General Manager
• Fostered strong working relationships with all hotel departments
• Responsible for entire front office operation including MOD's, Front Desk, Concierge, Bellman, Lifeguards and PBX as well as Housekeeping and Laundry
• Ensured high level of guest satisfaction as well as the financial results of each department
• Monitored daily call sheets to ensure timely… Show more

• 300 room newly renovated, full service resort
• Responsible for all hotel operations in absence of General Manager
• Fostered strong working relationships with all hotel departments
• Responsible for entire front office operation including MOD's, Front Desk, Concierge, Bellman, Lifeguards and PBX as well as Housekeeping and Laundry
• Ensured high level of guest satisfaction as well as the financial results of each department
• Monitored daily call sheets to ensure timely deliveries
• Created department motivational programs within two weeks of hire
• Developed, trained and mentored over 85 managers, supervisors and team members
• Oversaw the maintenance and configuration of the property management system (Opera)
• Prepared departmental budgets
• Managed rooms payroll to ensure efficient staffing according to budget and occupancy
• Responsible for the Eden Market (hotel gift shop) including purchasing, displays and inventory
• Held weekly Rooms Division Meetings to discuss forecast, policies, upcoming events, etc.
• Daily guest room inspections with reports to maintenance and housekeeping supervisors for remedial action if necessary Show less

Collaborative and hands-on leader driving sales excellence through strategic coaching, prospecting initiatives, and team development.
   •   Led a sales team that tripled in size during my tenure, contributing to the company achieving record-breaking revenue numbers.
   •   Designed and executed sales strategies with a strong focus on prospecting, enabling the team to consistently identify and capitalize on revenue opportunities.
   •   Consulted, trained, and mentored sales… Show more

Collaborative and hands-on leader driving sales excellence through strategic coaching, prospecting initiatives, and team development.
   •   Led a sales team that tripled in size during my tenure, contributing to the company achieving record-breaking revenue numbers.
   •   Designed and executed sales strategies with a strong focus on prospecting, enabling the team to consistently identify and capitalize on revenue opportunities.
   •   Consulted, trained, and mentored sales professionals in the service and sales process, enhancing sales effectiveness and driving individual and team performance.
   •   Partnered with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Operations, and Learning Design, to develop and implement sales initiatives aligned with business goals.
   •   Acted as a Subject Matter Expert on sales scripts and video training for hotel teams, ensuring consistent and effective communication of best practices.
   •   Developed and maintained comprehensive training materials, including presentations, job aids, virtual class resources, and participant handouts, to support sales and revenue generation.
   •   Monitored sales results and provided actionable insights to improve the effectiveness of the sales process and training programs.
   •   Created and implemented strategic plans to enhance sales knowledge, increase revenue generation, and address performance challenges.
   •   Facilitated training sessions and presentations, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.
   •   Championed the integration of marketing initiatives into sales efforts, equipping the team with techniques to optimize prospect engagement and conversion.
   •   Coordinated communications and led meetings to align stakeholders on sales goals, strategies, and progress.
   •   Assessed and analyzed business needs, recommending training programs to enhance the capabilities of sales, support, and marketing teams.
Show less

• Opened new 72-room Ephrata Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in September 2005 and 85-room Mount Joy Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in July 2015, resulting in promotion to Area General Manager
• While opening new hotel, maintained award-winning status at Ephrata while GOP increased by 3.3%
• Achieved award winning status every year since opening, ranked through customer loyalty and quality scores
• Conducted all pre-opening sales calls, job fairs, hiring and Team Member training
•… Show more

• Opened new 72-room Ephrata Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in September 2005 and 85-room Mount Joy Hampton Inn & Suites hotel in July 2015, resulting in promotion to Area General Manager
• While opening new hotel, maintained award-winning status at Ephrata while GOP increased by 3.3%
• Achieved award winning status every year since opening, ranked through customer loyalty and quality scores
• Conducted all pre-opening sales calls, job fairs, hiring and Team Member training
• Responsible for all hotel operations including revenue maximization, budget, profitability, human resources, accounts receivable, payroll, inventory and ordering, sales & marketing
• Created checkbooks and scorecards for Leadership Team to manage departmental expense
• Managed two major Hampton Brand Initiative renovation projects: "JumpStart Fitness" and "Perfect Mix Lobby", resulting in double-digit increase in Guest Satisfaction scores
• Achieved 18 consecutive "Outstanding" Quality Assurance Inspection scores by Hilton Worldwide
• Used creative training methods to keep Team engaged, resulting in lowest turnover in management company (18-23%)
• Was personally profiled for a video to highlight leadership effectiveness. This video was used to train every new Hampton General Manager for 8 years (2008 to 2016)
• Certified to administer and provide job coaching using StandOut
• Led hotels' charitable efforts, resulting in generous donations for local churches and organizations
• Retained by hotel management company of 11 years after the Hampton Inn & Suites hotels were sold to work at 105 room all-suite Staybridge Suites in Royersford, PA
• Within 90 days of assuming leadership of Royersford hotel, improved Overall Experience Score 25 points; Overall Service Score 28 points; Guestroom Cleanliness 16 points; and Overall Breakfast 22 points through focus on training
• Champion for IHG's "Green Engage" program to reduce costs in energy, water and waste, and improve impact on the environment Show less

• Full Service property of 276 rooms with 40 residential style suites
• Responsible for all Front Desk and Housekeeping Operations
• Received 1,000 point “Perfect Score” Best Western Inspection June 2005
• Responsible for maintaining and designing new content for 5 property websites
• Organized Room Inspection program to ensure hotel and brand standards were maintained
• Responsible for controlling labor costs and staffing levels for Front Office and Housekeeping
•… Show more

• Full Service property of 276 rooms with 40 residential style suites
• Responsible for all Front Desk and Housekeeping Operations
• Received 1,000 point “Perfect Score” Best Western Inspection June 2005
• Responsible for maintaining and designing new content for 5 property websites
• Organized Room Inspection program to ensure hotel and brand standards were maintained
• Responsible for controlling labor costs and staffing levels for Front Office and Housekeeping
• Created Motivational Reward program Show less

Throughout my dynamic career in hospitality management, I have consistently demonstrated leadership, sales acumen, and a commitment to community engagement.

I began my journey by spearheading the opening of a new 95-room hotel in June 1999 as Assistant General Manager, quickly earning promotion to the role of General Manager in April 2000. In the absence of a dedicated sales position, I assumed dual responsibilities as both GM and Sales Manager, personally handling all sales calls… Show more

Throughout my dynamic career in hospitality management, I have consistently demonstrated leadership, sales acumen, and a commitment to community engagement.

I began my journey by spearheading the opening of a new 95-room hotel in June 1999 as Assistant General Manager, quickly earning promotion to the role of General Manager in April 2000. In the absence of a dedicated sales position, I assumed dual responsibilities as both GM and Sales Manager, personally handling all sales calls, negotiating contracts, and representing the property at community events.

During my tenure, our hotel achieved remarkable accolades, including nationwide recognition in the top 3% of the entire Hampton Brand from 2001 to 2004. Additionally, we secured the coveted #1 ranking for service in a five-state region for consecutive years in 2001 and 2002, alongside eight consecutive "Outstanding" inspection scores.

I fostered a culture of community involvement through initiatives such as establishing monthly "We Care Committee" meetings and leading quarterly community projects. Beyond our property, I conducted motivational workshops for the Manheim Chamber & School District, served on the Manheim Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in 2002 and 2003, and acted as the 2003 Ambassador for the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce.

My dedication to professional excellence led to nominations for prestigious awards such as the 2004 "Athena Award" by the Lancaster Chamber and a position on the Board of Directors for the Greater Lancaster Hotel Motel Association in 2005. Furthermore, I proudly chaired the Water Street Rescue Mission Holiday Drive for the Greater Lancaster Hotel Motel Association. Show less