Kristin Delahunt believes that women shouldn’t let a lack of confidence hold them back. The keys to success are to “Take risks, speak up, ask questions and embrace extra projects.”
The American culture tends to reward extroverts, and naturally quiet people — especially women — may worry that their nature may hold them back when it comes to climbing the corporate ladder. But it can be an asset, says Kristin Delahunt, Vice President, Destination Services, with the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB).
Her meetings and events career started when she took a job at Maritz Global Events in St. Louis, Mo., as a travel director in 1998, where she was under the division program operations. In this role, she traveled around the globe operating corporate meetings and incentive trips for groups of all sizes.
After five years of extensive travel and a move to Atlanta, Delahunt sought a fast-paced, varied industry role closer to home. She says the ACVB “offered the perfect opportunity as a destination services manager, allowing me to leverage my event planning and operational skills.” She then became Director of Destination Services, overseeing the housing/registration department, before moving to her current role as Vice President in 2019.
Prevue recently caught up with Delahunt to learn more.
Prevue: What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, career-wise?
Delahunt: As a naturally quiet person, ‘being heard’ can sometimes be a challenge for me and has been a key learning experience. While I prioritize listening, I ensure my contributions are recognized through action. In event planning, results speak louder than words. Demonstrating a commitment to hard work, meticulous detail and exceptional client service is what truly drives success and builds a strong reputation.
Prevue: Who would you say has been your strongest mentor?
Delahunt: My greatest mentor is my mother. She worked for as long as I can remember and even after having four young kids, she put herself through college and continued to build a career. She taught me the value of hard work and that it would be a conduit for opportunities to grow, learn and live a full life.
I enjoy the experience of mentoring our interns to help them uncover their talents and a passion for hospitality. It is also incredible to see the fresh perspectives and new ideas they bring to what we do and how we serve our customers.
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?
Delahunt: You don’t have to know it all to qualify your seat at the table. Sometimes the best, most creative ideas and solutions come from people who are newer to the organization as they can bring fresh perspectives to the team.
I also believe that women should proactively seize opportunities: take risks, speak up, ask questions and embrace extra projects, regardless of initial confidence. This willingness to go the extra mile is the result of a rewarding career path.
Prevue: How has being a woman leader informed your work with major sporting events? What have you learned along the way that enables you to create authentic destination experiences and maximize attendee engagement?
Delahunt: My work in supporting many of Atlanta’s largest sporting events allows me to elevate inclusivity and diverse perspectives. I focus on championing initiatives that ensure equal representation and create welcoming spaces for all attendees. This translates into more authentic destination experiences and increased attendee engagement.
Along the way, I’ve learned the power of collaboration with other women in the industry. By prioritizing details that foster a sense of belonging like improved family spaces and diverse food options, we’ve significantly boosted engagement. Ultimately, my leadership has focused on creating sports events that reflect the reality that sports are for everyone.
You May Also Be Interested In…
What Women’s Day Means to These Planners
Exclusive: Azamara CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler on Leadership and Resiliency
Women’s History Month in Chicago
