Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Hatfield.
Hi Courtney, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey in hospitality began in the early 2000s while I was attending the University of Central Florida where my college job quickly became a career calling. I was drawn to the energy of hotels: the constant movement, the diversity of people and the chance to make someone’s day better. I went on to earn my degree from the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, and I joined the Hilton team shortly after.
Over the years, I’ve worked in nearly every department throughout a hotel, from operations to food and beverage to leadership development. Each role taught me something new about people, service and the power of culture. Today, I’m proud to lead Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa, a beachfront property that’s finalizing a full renovation in November 2025. This transformation reflects not only the beauty of our coastal location but also the spirit of renewal and excellence that defines our team.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has certainly had its challenges, but those moments have shaped me both personally and professionally. One of the biggest learning curves was stepping into a new market and leading a large team through transition while adapting to a new community and culture. It required patience, open communication, and a willingness to listen before leading.
Guiding a property through change, especially during renovation or organizational shifts, can test a team’s resilience. It takes time to build trust and keep everyone motivated when so much is evolving around them. Those experiences have taught me that growth rarely happens on smooth paths. They’ve strengthened my leadership and reminded me how important clarity, consistency, and empathy are when guiding people through change.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My professional life and career have been shaped by saying “yes” to opportunities when they come knocking, opening new hotel properties throughout the country, joining taskforce assignments in multiple states and leading teams through challenges and transformations. I’ve learned that growth often comes when you’re slightly outside your comfort zone. Those experiences and the incredible mentors I’ve had along the way have shaped how I lead today.
I specialize in hotel operations and hospitality leadership, and I’m known for building strong service cultures where teams feel connected, empowered and proud of what they do. What sets me apart from others in my field is my balance of compassion and business. While I value data and performance, I never lose sight of the people behind the numbers.
Right now, I’m most proud of the transformation happening at Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa. As we complete our renovation in the coming weeks, we’re elevating the guest experience and redefining what hospitality means in our corner of Deerfield Beach. The most rewarding part has been watching our team grow throughout that process.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I feel that consistency with purpose is an essential leadership quality. It’s easy to lead when things are going well, but the real test is how a leader gives guidance when times are tough. Staying rooted in communication, clarity and integrity allows me to advise my team through both calm and turbulent events.
Pricing:
- Hotel rates vary seasonally and can be found directly through Embassy Suites by Hilton Deerfield Beach Resort & Spa’s booking channels.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/embassysuitesdeerfield
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embassysuitesdeerfieldbeach
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmbassySuitesDeerfieldBeach/
