WaterWalk appointed Rebecca Billups to national director of sales for its Stay division. Having started her career in the extended-stay industry more than 25 years ago, Billups brings extensive experience in corporate sales, general management and training to WaterWalk. Billups’ experience also includes working under WaterWalk’s late founder and extended-stay pioneer Jack DeBoer in the early days of her career.
“We value Rebecca’s longtime commitment to the extended-stay industry and her extensive knowledge of the vision of our founder and my late grandfather, Jack DeBoer,” WaterWalk CEO Mimi Oliver said in a statement. “As we continue to focus on the strategic growth plan for this brand, we are excited about this sales focus within the organization and feel confident that Rebecca will be a cohesive addition to our team—aligning with our innovative approach to both short- and long-term lodging, as well as embodying our legacy of a ‘can do’ attitude.”
In this role created as a part of WaterWalk’s growth plan, Billups will be responsible for proactively soliciting qualified national accounts to create partnerships across the WaterWalk portfolio. In addition, she will represent the brand at key industry events, continuing to share the unique positioning WaterWalk holds within the hospitality industry.
Throughout her career, Billups has led sales teams with other extended-stay brands, starting with Candlewood Suites in 1997 where she spearheaded corporate and local sales. She then managed the original Residence Inn location in Wichita, Kan. Most recently, Billups applied her sales experience to the broadcast media industry, overseeing sales initiatives across various regional media outlets.
“Jack DeBoer taught me invaluable lessons on business, leadership, service and life early on in my hotel career,” said Billups. “Having kick-started my career at Candlewood before progressing into management of the original Residence Inn and a number of roles in between, I am grateful for the opportunity to build relationships and value for yet another exceptional brand that Jack and the WaterWalk team has built. I look forward to becoming a resource for tapping into the massive growth potential that this brand holds as its reach extends across the country.”