THS January Consultant of the Month

Originally from Maryland, Elaina Smith-Brodie brings nearly 18 years of hospitality experience, warmth and curiosity to every assignment she supports. At home, she enjoys quiet time with her husband, Eric Brodie, and their five-year-old cat, Bootz. An avid reader, traveler and anime enthusiast, Elaina recharges by exploring new cultures and destinations. Her favorite places include Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Atlanta. Professionally, she thrives in high-energy markets like New Orleans and San Diego, where the pace and vibrancy align with her passion for hospitality.

A career built on growth and opportunity

Elaina’s hospitality journey began at the front desk where she quickly discovered her passion for service and sales. A pivotal moment came when a director of sales recognized her potential and invited her to join a new property as a sales coordinator. That opportunity launched her into hotel sales at the former DoubleTree in Rockville, Maryland, and set the foundation for a long and accomplished career.

Over the years, Elaina has built a well-rounded background spanning operations and sales, holding leadership roles such as catering sales manager and director of sales and marketing. Her experience across multiple brands and property types has shaped her into a versatile, confident leader with a strong focus on revenue strategy, team development and guest experience.

Making an impact through task force leadership

Elaina currently serves as a consultant with THS, where her breadth of experience allows her to step seamlessly into diverse environments. She has been part of the THS team for more than three years and has successfully completed more than 17 assignments. Her ability to stabilize teams, drive results and elevate both guest and client satisfaction makes her an invaluable asset wherever she goes.

What Elaina values most about THS is the culture. She describes it as collaborative, supportive and responsive, sharing that it feels “like being a coworker in the office, not just a consultant miles away.” That sense of connection empowers her to lead with confidence, support on-property teams and deliver high-impact training sessions that help managers grow and succeed.

A mission that extends beyond the assignment

Elaina views the opportunity to travel and work as a task force manager as a privilege, not a guarantee. That mindset guides her approach to every assignment with a two-part mission:

1. Be fully present and enjoy the journey.
2. Build a strong, sustainable foundation so the on-property team can continue to thrive long after she transitions out.

Elaina’s advice to fellow consultants

“No two hotels or teams are the same. You don’t fit into a standard box, so don’t expect your teams to either.”

Her tips for success include:

• Stay curious: Arrive with an open mind and ask thoughtful questions.
• Connect early: Schedule one-on-ones with department heads right away.
• Listen first: Understand existing processes before recommending change.
• Protect balance: Take real breaks, enjoy time off and avoid burnout.
• Travel smart: Bring familiar work items to create a comfortable workspace from day one.

Congratulations, Elaina, on being named our January Consultant of the Month. Your dedication, adaptability and positive energy exemplify the very best of THS and inspire everyone around you.

Each month, THS presents the Consultant of the Month award to someone working in the field. In addition to this spotlight article in Transformation Post, the honoree receives a gift box and gift card.

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