Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta recently welcomed hotel and hospitality veteran JoAnne Richards as the new S.M.E.R.F. Group Sales Manager to accommodate Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta’s growing popularity as premier destination for special group events. Richards will manage existing clients and generate new group sales business in the S.M.E.R.F. markets in order to ensure all revenue goals are achieved and exceeded.

As a new Sales Manager, Richards will be responsible for new group sales accounts, entertaining and maintaining relationships with existing accounts, and meeting and exceeding goals in food, beverage and room rental. She will also be responsible for developing and presenting persuasive sales presentations to prospective clients. 

Richards’ ample experience of in the industry and local market make her the perfect candidate for the position. With a background in hospitality sales management from hotels including Hilton Atlanta and Wyndham Hotel Group, Richards has an extensive knowledge of market trends, competition and key customers of the hotel space.

“We are delighted to bring JoAnne on board with us at Sonesta,” said David Kohlasch, general manager at Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta. “Her hospitality experience and extensive sales portfolio will allow our hotel to tap into new markets and showcase all that we have to offer for groups."