Ozarks Profile: Ray Ezelle

Tell us about your company?

The Springfield district of John Q. Hammons Hotels comprises University Plaza, Holiday Inn North, The Courtyard by Marriott/The Cafe, The Residence Inn by Marriott, and Holiday Inn and Convention Center-Joplin.

John Q Hammons Hotels is the premier owner, operator and developer of upscale, full-service hotels and resorts in the nation; it has 56 hotels located in strategic locations across the country.

What do you do?

I manage the effort of the sales and catering staff at all the Springfield properties with the objectives of acquiring new business, retention of existing business and the expansion of our existing business.

What sorts of conventions do you seek out?

We focus on three niche markets: national- and regional-level religious conventions, sports groups, and environmental and conservation groups.

We have a sales office in Jefferson City to attract state associations and government groups. The four John Q. Hammons Hotels will have approximately 40,000 rooms utilized by groups in 2002.

The four hotels in Springfield all have different niches: University Plaza is the convention hotel; Holiday Inn is the leisure hotel; The Courtyard is the business travelers hotel; and The Residence Inn is the extended-stay hotel

What attracted you to your career?

The hotel industry gets in your blood. It's challenging but fun. I enjoy the competitiveness of the industry with the goals of dominating the market and increasing the market share of our Springfield properties.

What prepared you for your job?

I graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in marketing and recreation. I have more than 10 years in the industry working for a large hotel and conference center. My experience is with full-service properties that focus on group business.

I joined John Q Hammons Hotels in April 2001.

What are some of the most difficult issues you deal with?

Growing revenue at all four properties in Springfield in a flat-demand market.

What's the best part about your work?

Being part of a great team here in Springfield.

Tell us about your family?

I am married to Stephanie and we have four sons: Jordan, Ethan, Logan and Holden.

If you could choose another job, what would it be?

I just want to grow my career with John Q Hammons Hotels. It is one of the best hotel companies in the nation and I am just excited to be a part of their team.