Stacy Hinrichs, General Manager, DoubleTree Hotel and Porter’s Steakhouse, LHM

Stacy Hinrichs, General Manager, DoubleTree Hotel and Porter’s Steakhouse, LHM

By KATE GENO
    Stacy Hinrichs, general manager of the DoubleTree Hotel and Porter’s Steakhouse in Collinsville, began her career as a hotel front desk receptionist and is now a member of the DoubleTree Circle of Leadership team, which recognizes the top general managers in the company.
    In addition to her managerial role at the DoubleTree Hotel, Hinrichs is the regional director of hotel operations for LHM and offers operational support for the Four Points by Sheraton in Fairview Heights.
    She began working for the DoubleTree Hotel in August 2008. Her responsibilities include overseeing 14 managers at the hotel who lead departments such as housekeeping, food and beverage, sales and catering and human resources. She is also in charge of the operations, budget, forecasting and guest services.
    “I am proud to work for the only full-service hotel in the Metro East,” says Hinrichs. “Many clients are drawn to us for the services we provide and the events we plan, which range from political fund-raisers and corporate functions to weddings and reunions.”
    The variety of guests that visit the hotel, whether for one stay or on a frequent basis, make for an exciting atmosphere. Hinrichs enjoys getting to know her guests and developing a rapport with them.
    Behind the scenes, Hinrichs leads by example. Her willingness to work every aspect of the hotel from cleaning to catering has made her well-versed in every position. As a manager, she can relate with her staff and is qualified to help them whenever there is a need.
    “I enjoy watching my employees develop their careers,” says Hinrichs. “We are very family-oriented at the hotel and make it a point to watch out for each other.”
    The staff also watches out for the community around them. The DoubleTree Hotel Care Committee works with the St. Louis Area Food Bank, Good Samaritan Women’s Shelter, Lewis and Clark Boy Scouts, local schools, and animal shelters.
    With a degree in hotel and restaurant management from Eastern Illinois University, Hinrichs started in the industry at the Marriott Pavilion (now the Hilton Ballpark) then moved to the Candlewood Suites in Overland Park, Kansas, as assistant general manager and director of sales. For her, experience was a key factor in her rise to management.
    “My advice to others looking to succeed in this industry is to gain as much experience as you can,” says Hinrichs. “The best thing for my career was to work every department of the hotel.”
    Hinrichs and her team have received the DoubleTree Pride Award and Hospitality of Excellence Award for outstanding guest service based on guest feedback. She personally won the Starwood Excellence Award for Outstanding Leadership and Contribution to Starwood Hotels and Resorts North America.