In her new role, McGowan will be responsible for planning, developing and growing business-to-business, third-party customer partnerships and leading the brand's regional directors of field sales to increase profitable hotel revenue.

"During her short tenure with us, Dawn already has made significant contributions to our overall sales organisation, particularly within our business-to-business, third-party channels, by driving significant revenue and improving sales and business retention," said Gary DeLapp, WoodSpring president and CEO. "She works wonderfully with customers and delivers timely service. Furthermore, she has constantly and consistently expanded her own scope of work, recently adding training, CRM reporting/analysis and operational sales process development. We are confident she will bring the same enthusiasm and work ethic to her new role."

Prior to her promotion, McGowan was director of channel sales. Previously, she was regional director of global/national accounts for La Quinta Inn & Suites. McGowan also successfully led the start-up and development of JADE Event Management, whose clients included numerous Fortune 500 leaders. She led sales efforts for hotels and resorts including the Greenleaf Golf & Tennis Resort and the Hilton Tampa Airport, both in Tampa Bay, Florida, and the Bayfront Hilton in St. Petersburg, Florida.

"Dawn's fervour for her job is infectious and has had a positive impact on the entire sales organization," noted Wendy Hoekwater, WoodSpring chief marketing officer. "Her desire to take on increasingly sophisticated new roles makes her both an ideal associate and team leader, one who demonstrates by example. This promotion recognises the hard work and dedication Dawn has displayed as the WoodSpring Hotels brand continues its aggressive growth plans."