Excelsior Springs, MO—Mark Johnson, a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, has joined the historic Elms Hotel & Spa as the new Director of Sales, Marketing, and Events. Johnson, who brings over thirty years of experience in hotel management, is looking to strengthen the hotel’s ties with the local community while enhancing its reputation as a premier destination in the greater Kansas City area.
Originally from California, Johnson relocated to Kansas City in 1993 and began his career at the Westin Crown Center. His tenure there spanned over a decade, after which he held various positions in the hotel industry across the region, including a recent role at the Hyatt Place Hotel and Lenexa Conference Center.
In his new position, Johnson is committed to revitalizing the Elms Hotel’s presence both locally and regionally. “I see my role here as a bridge between the hotel and the community,” Johnson said in an interview. “My goal is to promote the hotel not just as a luxurious destination but as a cornerstone of Excelsior Springs.”
One of Johnson’s primary focuses is to boost the hotel’s midweek occupancy by attracting corporate retreats and business conferences. He believes that increasing midweek business will have a positive ripple effect on the local economy. “As we fill up the hotel during the week, the ancillary revenue will benefit local merchants, restaurants, and the city through occupancy taxes,” he explained.
Johnson is also working on several community outreach initiatives, including the upcoming fireworks display on the 4th of July. He has also been meeting with local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Excelsior Partnership, and is planning familiarization trips for Kansas City area travel planners. These efforts are meant to showcase the Elms Hotel’s upgraded facilities and unique offerings, such as its world-class spa and historical charm, to those living in the area and entice them to utilize the hotel year-round.
To further integrate with the community, Johnson has begun to emphasize the 20% discount on food and beverages for residents of Excelsior Springs. “We want locals to feel welcomed and valued at the Elms,” he said. He is also exploring ways to accommodate local events, such as high school proms and community meetings, by potentially offering flexible pricing during off-peak times.
Johnson acknowledges the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic shifts. However, he remains optimistic about the future. “The past few years have been tough, but we are seeing a strong rebound. The Elms Hotel has invested significantly in its facilities, and we are ready to provide an unparalleled experience to our guests,” he noted.
As Johnson settles into his new role, he is eager to continue building relationships and fostering a sense of community. “Excelsior Springs has been incredibly welcoming,” he said. “I look forward to contributing to the town’s growth and to continue making the Elms Hotel a beloved landmark for both residents and visitors.”
For more information about the Elms Hotel, visit elmshotelandspa.com. The hotel is also on Instagram and Facebook.
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