Analytics, Courage, and Leadership Shaped Through Curiosity

Dr. Kelly McGuire’s journey, from food and beverage operator to Managing Principal for Hospitality at ZS and currently CCO at Kasa, reveals a leader shaped by intellectual curiosity, data‑driven passion, and courageous career choices. Her path began in the restaurant world, evolved through Cornell’s master’s and PhD programs, and accelerated during her early work with emerging SaaS technologies. Kelly’s expertise flourished as she entered revenue management just as big data began reshaping hospitality, ultimately leading her to SAS where she helped modernize analytical approaches and integrate powerful decision‑science tools into industry practice.

Her career expanded across Wyndham, vacation rentals during the rise of Airbnb, and MGM, where she rebuilt casino revenue strategy across 40,000 rooms and multiple segments. When a corporate restructuring eliminated her role, she chose reinvention, traveling, reflecting, and finally joining ZS, where she now advances commercial capabilities while helping organizations strengthen analytical maturity.

Kelly’s authenticity, relationship‑building, and commitment to lifting the industry shine through every story she shares. From volunteer leadership at HSMAI to mentoring lightning‑round presenters, she demonstrates how generosity, communication excellence, and a passion for teaching can elevate an entire discipline.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• "Be kind and be grateful."
• "I built myself a board of directors."
• "These jobs don’t come up that often, challenge it."
• "People buy from people."
• "Run towards the roar."

Closing Reflection

Dr. Kelly McGuire’s story illustrates how courage, curiosity, and community fuel enduring impact. Her message encourages every professional to embrace analytics, build authentic relationships, and move boldly toward the opportunities, and roars, that shape extraordinary careers.