Leadership Guided by Grit, Gratitude, and Lifelong Growth

Allison Reid reflects on a career shaped by perseverance, curiosity, and a willingness to say yes to unexpected opportunities. She describes growing up with a strong work ethic, taking early jobs that taught her discipline, and entering hospitality through a path she had not originally planned. Her journey included roles across operations, development, and global organizations, each teaching her the importance of preparation, resilience, and surrounding herself with people who help her grow. Allison shares how mentors opened doors, encouraged her to stretch, and helped her navigate pivotal decisions by challenging her to believe in her own capabilities.

She also discusses balancing family responsibilities with demanding roles, emphasizing communication, support systems, and being intentional about where she invests her time. She speaks candidly about overcoming fear, stepping into high‑stakes moments, and learning to lead authentically. She highlights the value of trusting her instincts, embracing collaboration, and staying focused on building relationships that drive results. Her philosophy centers on gratitude, continuous learning, and giving others opportunities to shine as they grow in their careers.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “If someone asks you to do something, show up. Even if you’re not perfect or you say something wrong, it’s fine - someone can always learn something from you.”
• “In those moments of self-doubt, I tell myself: What’s the worst that’s going to happen? You’ve done the work, you’re prepared - so trust yourself and move forward.”
• “The quiet ones often have the answer. When a discussion is going in circles, look around the room and ask the person who hasn’t spoken - you might be surprised by what they bring.”
• “You belong there. Period, end stop. If you’ve done the work, shown up, and prepared, you have every right to be at the table - even if you’re the only one who looks like you.”
• “Advocating for yourself is a negotiation. Pick your moment, stick to the facts, and stay away from comparison - you don’t know the full picture of someone else’s situation.”

Closing Reflection

Allison’s story reminds us that courage grows when we embrace challenge, trust the people who believe in us, and lead with authenticity. Her reflections inspire us to stay curious, lift others as we rise, and build careers guided by gratitude, purpose, and the quiet confidence that comes from doing the work with heart and humility.