Women in Lodging
Step up to the plate for an afternoon of leadership, connection, and inspiration at Wrigley Field.
Join IHLA for Lessons in Leadership, a special Women in Lodging panel featuring accomplished women leaders from across the hospitality industry. Hear candid insights, career lessons, and perspectives on what it takes to lead, grow, and make an impact.
After the panel, enjoy a private tour of Wrigley Field before heading to Hotel Zachary for a networking reception.
Come for the conversation. Stay for the connections. Leave inspired to lead.
Moderator:
Leticia Phocas Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile | GM
With nearly 30 years of hospitality leadership experience at Hilton, Leticia Phocas serves as General Manager of Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile. Known for her commitment to operational excellence, team development, and inclusive leadership, she is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and advancing women in hospitality. A proud first-generation Mexican American, Leticia has championed Women in Leadership initiatives and serves as an Adjunct Professor at Roosevelt University. In 2026, she was recognized by Hilton Careers for her inspiring career journey and dedication to empowering the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Panelists:
Kara Bachman Chicago Sports Commission| Executive Director
Renee Sykes The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago| Director of People & Culture
With more than 28 years of hospitality experience, Renee Sykes serves as Regional Director of People & Culture for Sage Hospitality Group and Director of People & Culture at The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago. Known for her authentic leadership and commitment to developing talent, she is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and fostering workplaces where people feel valued and empowered. Renee was recognized as one of Modern Luxury's Dynamic Women of Chicago in 2024 and has received Sage Hospitality Group's HR Leadership and Heart of Hospitality Leadership Awards. She also serves as a Trustee of the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation and on Eastern Illinois University's Hospitality Management Advisory Board, supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Nicole Thomure Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park | Hotel Manager
Born and raised in Montreal, Nicole Thomure is a seasoned hospitality executive with over 20 years of experience in luxury hotel operations. She currently serves as Hotel Manager at Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, having held several senior leadership positions with Fairmont properties in Scottsdale, Pittsburgh, and Jasper, as well as The Ritz-Carlton in St. Louis. Nicole is passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences, developing high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence. A graduate of École hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland, she brings a global perspective, a strong commitment to service excellence, and a people-first leadership approach to her work. Fluent in English and French with knowledge of Hebrew, German and Italian, Nicole combines her international hospitality background with a genuine appreciation for diverse cultures and meaningful connections. Outside of her professional life, Nicole enjoys spending time with her husband and their two young daughters
Thank You to our Sponsors
IHLA Women in Lodging connects women across Illinois’ hospitality industry with a powerful network of professionals committed to supporting, mentoring, and advancing one another. Through meaningful connections, professional development, and leadership opportunities, helps women build confidence, strengthen their skills, and accelerate their careers.
IHLA is dedicated to breaking down barriers, expanding pathways to leadership, and equipping women with the tools and relationships needed to achieve their professional goals. The Women in Lodging program also encourages greater engagement in advocacy and the political process, ensuring women have a strong voice in shaping the future of Illinois’ hospitality industry.
Membership in Women in Lodging is complimentary to anyone employed by an IHLA member hotel or company.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT IHLA
TO ASK ABOUT SPONSORSHIPS CONTACT SUSANNAH FLANNER.
“IHLA has proven to be the most engaging and helpful state lodging association in the country. Its engagement with its members and the many events that are held throughout the year bringing hotels and vendor members together is priceless. Through its incredible communication, education, professional development, industry resources and above all valuable networking opportunities, IHLA truly strengthens Illinois’ hospitality industry”.
Leticia Phocas
General Manager
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
