International Women’s Day Spotlight: Charlene Lopez

March 6, 2025

The Atlanta CVB’s Charlene Lopez shares her experiences and perspectives as a top female executive in the hospitality industry.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, held this year on March 8, Prevue caught up with Charlene Lopez, who currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB).

As she says, “International Women’s Day is not only a day to celebrate the progress women have made in every industry, including in the hospitality and destination marketing sector, but also to reflect on the work still ahead of us. For me, it’s about amplifying all women’s voices, both those breaking barriers and those still finding their way.”

Prevue: Please share a little about how you got into this business to begin with, and your career journey to date.

Lopez: My journey into the hospitality industry was anything but planned. Fresh out of college, I tagged along with my best friend to a job fair for a new hotel property in San Antonio. I had no resume, no interview attire and absolutely no intention of applying for a role. But as fate would have it, I found myself in an impromptu interview and landed a role as a reservations agent at the resort.

From that unexpected start, I was hooked. I spent my first year learning the ins and outs of the hotel business, absorbing everything I could about guest services and operations. Then life took me on a detour — a wonderful hiatus to Europe followed by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mother. But the pull of hospitality was strong, and I found myself drawn back to it.

I returned to the hospitality industry with renewed energy, advancing in my career from business travel manager to sales manager and then associate director of sales. I was fortunate to be a part of the Hyatt family which led me to Atlanta, a city I instantly fell in love with. My passion for Atlanta sparked my transition to the destination side where I could champion the amazing city that I now called home.

Almost 13 years later, I’m honored to serve as the Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer for Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. It’s been a journey filled with unexpected turns, incredible opportunities and a deep-seated passion for connecting people with unforgettable experiences.

Prevue: What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, career-wise, specifically as a woman in the industry, where men still tend to dominate the top positions?

Lopez: Like many women, I’ve navigated situations where my contributions weren’t immediately recognized, requiring me to consistently demonstrate my strategic vision and data-driven approach. These experiences, though challenging, have profoundly shaped my leadership. I’ve learned to stand firm in my convictions while building a strong network of allies who champion inclusivity. I believe diverse leadership strengthens our industry, and I’m proud to be breaking down barriers for future generations. While progress is ongoing, the change I do see motivates me to continue striving for more.

Prevue: Has mentorship been a part of your career journey?

Lopez: Mentorship has been pivotal in my career, both as a mentee and mentor. Early on, I benefited from diverse mentors, including a seasoned sales director who taught me negotiation and relationship-building and others who expanded my strategic thinking and network. Their guidance provided invaluable insights into the industry’s dynamics, accelerating my growth.

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I prioritize mentoring, particularly to women new to hospitality, as I believe in paying it forward. In an industry with leadership opportunities for women, mentorship is crucial for fostering talent, building confidence and creating an equitable workplace. I encourage all women to seek and become mentors, investing in our industry’s future.

Prevue: What advice would you have for women who are just now starting off their careers that you wish you’d known when you were just starting out?

Lopez: If I could go back and whisper a few things in my younger self’s ear and to every woman starting out in this dynamic industry, it would be this: Build your network strategically. Don’t just collect business cards; cultivate genuine relationships. Attend industry events, join professional organizations and be proactive in connecting with people whose careers you admire.

Women should also confidently articulate their value and showcase successes, rather than downplaying achievements. Practice vocalizing contributions in meetings and claim your accomplishments. Find and use your voice. Confidence, compassion and self-advocacy are keys to success.

Prevue: Has being a female informed your work as a leader in destination sales for meetings and events?

Lopez: My perspective significantly shapes my leadership in destination sales. Empathy and unique insights enable deeper connections with clients and teams. In this relationship-driven industry, active listening, understanding diverse needs and building trust are crucial assets. My collaborative approach to challenges consistently drives results, especially in a field dependent on partnership and teamwork.

Prevue: What’s your “secret sauce” for success?

Lopez: I’d say it’s a combination of curiosity, resilience and authenticity. Curiosity allows me to continually learn about evolving trends, new technologies and fresh approaches that can help us stay competitive. Resilience is crucial in an industry that’s ever-changing, particularly in post-pandemic times — being able to pivot and adapt while keeping the big picture in mind has been key. I also believe in being genuine in my interactions, whether it’s with clients, colleagues or partners. It’s important to lead with integrity and stay true to your values, which builds credibility and long-term loyalty.

Success in destination sales isn’t about conforming to a particular mold; it’s about leveraging your unique strengths and building genuine connections. And I believe that being a woman has given me a distinct advantage in that regard.