A coin flip can take you on two paths. For Deborah Lahti, her choice has led her on the path to being named COO of Aligned Hospitality Management earlier this year.
Hotel Business caught up with Lahti to discuss her career and her new role.
—Adam Perkowsky
Where did your passion for hospitality come from?
I come from a very close family who had many gatherings. I loved helping my grandmother and mom prepare for and host these events, ensuring everyone felt welcome. During my teenage years, my family managed a camp where we treated our guests as if they were coming into our own home. This experience helped us create lasting memories for both our guests and us. So, my passion comes from the heart; I genuinely love crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact.
What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?
My first industry position was working for Camp Thunderbird in Mimbres, NM. My family managed the camp, which booked group events. We handled reservations, meal planning, housekeeping, cooking, serving and concierge duties—we were truly everything. Being part of a family-run operation, I learned that every aspect of the guest’s journey matters. From arrival to departure, the experience is key, and each of us has the ability to make a positive impact on our guests. We also can turn negative situations into positive ones.
Can you detail your journey as a female leader in the industry?
My journey started with a flip of a coin—Scottsdale, AZ, or Las Vegas. When I landed my first position in Scottsdale, I began to envision my future. It felt daunting, and I wasn’t sure what direction I was headed or how I would get there. I’m grateful to have had many great leaders and colleagues who supported my growth and development. While I’ve tried to be strategic in my career moves, I would be remiss not to acknowledge how the relationships I’ve built and the lessons I’ve learned from others has also played a crucial role in my success.
Your previous role was with Visit Phoenix. How did working at a DMO prepare you for your current position?
In a DMO, you adopt a global perspective, focusing on benefitting all current and future members. You develop partnerships with your members and thought leaders in the destination to drive economic growth. In my current role, I engage in similar work by overseeing a diverse range of properties, all aimed at generating revenue for both the properties and the destination.
What are your responsibilities as Aligned Hospitality ‘s COO?
As COO, I oversee the operations team, ensuring alignment and cohesion among team members. I update and implement policies and procedures to enhance efficiency, and I assist with market reports and analyses to identify future opportunities for growth.
There seems to be a lot going on in your company. Can you tell us about the new properties added to the portfolio and what’s in the pipeline?
Can you believe Aligned Hospitality Management will only be three years old in October? In three short years, what started with two properties has grown to more than 25 properties. Speaking of properties, while not new to the portfolio, we just went through a brand transition with The Tuxon becoming the first voco by IHG hotel in Arizona. This refreshing brand really identifies with all The Tuxon has to offer. As for the 2024 pipeline, we are thrilled about the November opening of The Kennedy in Tucson. The ownership group for this conversion property has gone above and beyond to create a distinct Tucson experience. At the end of the year, we will open a Spark by Hilton at the Tucson Airport with an ownership group known for bringing an elevated experience. So, we will wrap up the year with two exciting projects. As for 2025, you will have to wait and see, but I can share it starts with a transformation on the West Coast.
What is the company culture at Aligned?
The Aligned culture is based on values of faith, family and love. Through these values, the team has helped foster an empowering, supportive and inclusive culture. One of our general managers once said to me, “I feel like an equal,” and that warmed my heart. It perfectly captures the essence of our culture.
Are there any plans to expand to the East Coast or Midwest?
Bryan Tubaugh, our founder/CEO, has done an amazing job creating a company with a diverse portfolio. From economy scale to boutique, our management style opens us up to great opportunities that will eventually lead us to the Midwest and East Coast.
What advice would you give young people who are interested in hospitality as a career?
I’m thrilled you said “interested in hospitality as a career.” The industry has been actively promoting that hospitality is not merely a seasonal job, but a viable career path. My advice: Take the opportunity. You never know where it will lead you, and there are so many avenues you can take within the industry to find your path. When I was in school, I didn’t realize hospitality could be a career path. Since then, I’ve worked my way up from a sales administrative assistant to my current role as COO. Ultimately, you hold the key to your own destiny.
