Meet Aaron Moss

We were lucky to catch up with Aaron Moss recently and have shared our conversation below.

Aaron, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

To navigate this unfamiliar terrain, I focused on three key strategies:

1. Building Relationships
I made it a priority to connect with my team and colleagues. I learned that relationships were foundational in this industry. I organized team-building events, encouraging open dialogue where everyone felt valued. I also reached out to other hotel managers and industry leaders, seeking mentorship and advice. By cultivating these relationships, I found allies who supported my initiatives and amplified my voice in meetings.

2. Embracing My Unique Perspective
My background offered a fresh perspective on hospitality. I was keenly aware of the diverse needs of our guests, and I championed inclusivity in our services. I introduced programs celebrating local cultures, enhancing the guest experience while showcasing the richness of our community. I leveraged my experiences to advocate for initiatives that resonated with our diverse clientele, earning respect and recognition for my innovative approaches.

3. Staying Resilient and Adaptable
Challenges were inevitable. There were times when my ideas were met with skepticism, or when I felt the weight of being the only one representing my background. I learned to turn those moments into opportunities for growth. I sought feedback actively, using it to refine my strategies. I stayed adaptable, understanding that flexibility could pave the way for acceptance. Each small victory built my confidence and reinforced my belief in my capabilities.

As I transitioned to a corporate role with Choice Hotels International as the Owner and Portfolio Strategy Operations Director, I carried these lessons with me. In the corporate landscape, I often found myself in rooms where I was still the only person of color. Yet, I had transformed my initial apprehension into an unwavering confidence.

I began leading initiatives to foster diversity and inclusion within the organization. I advocated for mentorship programs aimed at young professionals of color, ensuring they had access to resources and opportunities that might have been elusive in my early career. By sharing my journey, I hoped to inspire others to take their seats at the table and find their voices.

Through every challenge, I recognized the power of representation. My presence in these corporate spaces became a beacon of possibility. Colleagues began to engage with me, eager to learn from my experiences. I used these interactions to promote dialogue on the importance of diverse perspectives in decision-making processes, emphasizing that inclusivity not only enriches the workplace but drives innovation and success.

Years later, I look back at that first day as a General Manager, and I realize that my journey was not just about climbing the ladder. It was about carving out spaces where others could follow. Every meeting, every strategic decision, and every mentorship session reinforced the notion that diversity is not just a checkbox; it’s a vital part of the hospitality narrative.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I currently serve as the Owner & Portfolio Strategy Operations Director for Choice Hotels International, where I have dedicated over eight years to driving strategic initiatives and operational excellence for our franchisees. My career in the hospitality industry spans more than 20 years, during which I have progressed through various roles, including Sales Manager, Sales Director, General Manager, and Regional Vice President of a hotel management company.

In my current position at Choice, I have demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision, building on my experience as Area Director and Regional Area Director, followed by Brand Operations Director before my recent promotion.

Beyond my corporate role, I serves as the Senior Pastor of Gray’s Temple Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in the West Palm, Florida, embodying my commitment to community service and leadership. I am also an entrepreneur, owning and operating a property management company with several single-family homes, as well as a mental health and life coaching firm.

Through my multifaceted career, I exemplify dedication to excellence in hospitality, community engagement, and personal development.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Open-Mindedness

Embracing diverse perspectives and approaches is crucial in the hospitality industry. Being open-minded allows you to adapt to different situations, learn from various cultures, and foster inclusivity within your teams. This quality not only enriches your own experience but also enhances the overall guest experience.
Willingness to Learn

The hospitality landscape is constantly evolving, making a commitment to continuous learning essential. Stay updated on industry trends, technology, and best practices. This willingness to learn will set you apart and demonstrate your dedication to professional growth and excellence.
Networking Skills

Building and nurturing professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities and insights. Actively network within your organization and the broader industry. Attend conferences, participate in workshops, and connect with mentors who can guide you on your journey.
Advice for Early-Career Professionals
Raise Your Hand for New Tasks: Don’t hesitate to volunteer for projects outside your typical responsibilities. This demonstrates initiative and helps you gain new skills and experiences, making you a more versatile and valuable team member.

Be Open to Feedback: Seek constructive criticism and be willing to adapt. This will not only enhance your skills but also show your commitment to personal and professional development.

Build a Diverse Network: Connect with professionals from different backgrounds and roles within hospitality. This diversity in your network can provide unique insights and opportunities, and it creates a support system that can be invaluable as you navigate your career.

Invest in Yourself: Consider pursuing certifications or advanced training related to hospitality management. This will enhance your expertise and show your dedication to your career.

By cultivating these qualities and following this advice, you can position yourself for success and impact as a young Black professional in the corporate hospitality space.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

Growing up in a single-parent home in the West End of Louisville, Kentucky, my childhood was framed by the strong women who surrounded me—my mother and my grandmother. Life wasn’t always easy, but their love and resilience shaped me in profound ways.

As we cooked, my grandmother shared stories from her childhood, tales of resilience, laughter, and the struggles of raising her own family. Each story was like a thread weaving our lives together, a tapestry of strength and love. I learned about her own mother, who had instilled in her the importance of hard work and determination.

When my mother came home, tired but eager to join us, the kitchen filled with laughter and chatter. We sat down together, and I felt a deep sense of belonging. In that moment, I realized that this simple act of cooking was more than just a meal; it was a ritual, a bond that tied us together across generations.

Years later, as I prepared to graduate high school, I reflected on that summer day. My grandmother’s patience and my mother’s hard work had gifted me with a legacy of resilience and love. They taught me not just to survive but to thrive, to embrace my roots, and to understand the importance of family.

Their impact went beyond that single day in the kitchen. They instilled in me a sense of responsibility and a desire to honor our family’s history.

Now, as I navigate adulthood, I often find myself in the kitchen, recalling my grandmother’s teachings and my mother’s laughter. Those lessons have become the foundation of who I am. The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to weave love and strength into the fabric of my life, showing me the importance of connection, family, and the power of shared stories.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.trinitycoachinggroup.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-moss-cha-crme-chdm-chsp-cpo-35397611/