Heidy Vicente is a dynamic and inspiring hospitality leader with over 12 years of fast-paced success and a proven track record of excellence. Driven by a passion to uplift others and create lasting impact, Heidy’s journey began from humble beginnings as an immigrant. Her unwavering determination and commitment to hard work have propelled her to new heights, with a focus on supporting her family and inspiring those around her. As Director of Sales at AC Hotel Honolulu, Heidy has played a pivotal role in the hotel’s growth and success, including its groundbreaking opening. With resilience, humility, and a relentless drive, she continues to lead with purpose, empowering others to reach their fullest potential.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with CXO Outlook Magazine, Heidy shared her professional trajectory in the hospitality industry, insights into the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, the secret mantra behind her success, future plans, pearls of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Heidy. What drives your passion for the hospitality industry, and how do you stay motivated and inspired?
My passion for hospitality comes from my roots—growing up with little and always being determined to make a difference. I was driven to contribute to my family, to make a positive impact on others, and to show that success isn’t defined by where you’re from or what you’re born with. It’s about your willingness to work hard, stay humble, and never give up. Over the past 12 years, my journey has been shaped by a deep hunger for growth, and I’ve been fortunate to rise quickly through the ranks. But it’s not about how fast you go; it’s about staying focused on what drives you and using your success to uplift others. Once you find your passion, the sense of fulfillment and the impact you create are more rewarding than you could ever imagine. And I remain inspired by the idea that there’s always room to learn, grow, and contribute more.
What do you love the most about your current role?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is being part of opening the very first AC Hotel in Oahu. Not everyone gets the chance to open a hotel, especially in a prime location like downtown Honolulu. The small team we had in the beginning worked endless hours, and seeing the hotel open was an incredible feeling. It was a true team effort, and that sense of accomplishment will always be close to my heart. I also love that I’m always learning. Although I had no experience in handling meetings or events before, it’s become one of my favorite aspects of sales. But above all, I love watching my team grow and thrive, and getting to meet so many new faces in the area. Many of them have become long-term friends and part of our ohana, and that sense of community is what makes this journey truly special.
What role do you believe innovation and experimentation play in driving business growth and success in the hospitality industry?
Innovation and experimentation are crucial. In a dynamic industry like hospitality, we have to be adaptable and open to change. Experimenting with new ideas, technologies, or ways of connecting with guests can set us apart from the competition and create unique experiences. The world is always changing, and so must we. Embracing innovation is how we stay relevant and continue to grow, no matter the challenges we face.
How do you stay ahead of emerging trends and developments in the hospitality industry, and what resources do you rely on for professional development?
Staying ahead means staying curious. I keep myself informed by attending industry events, networking with peers, and consuming content related to hospitality trends. Resources like webinars, industry publications, and connecting with other professionals keep me sharp. But it’s also about learning from the people around me—whether that’s from my team, my mentors, or clients who help shape my perspective on what the future of hospitality looks like.
What are your thoughts on diversity and inclusion in your field? How important is it to have authentic conversations with leaders, professionals, and changemakers to create more acceptance across the globe?
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the hospitality industry, as we’re in the business of bringing people together. To truly be effective, we must represent the diverse communities we serve. Authentic conversations and collaboration with leaders and changemakers help to break down barriers and open doors for everyone, no matter their background. When we foster an inclusive environment, we not only enrich the industry but also build stronger teams and better guest experiences.
You were recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Hawaii in 2024. Our readers would love to know the secret mantra behind your success.
My secret mantra is simple: stay hungry, stay humble, and uplift others along the way. Success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about the impact you have on the lives of those around you. I’ve always believed that we rise by lifting others, and that’s what has kept me motivated. My family, my fiancé, my mentors—they’ve all played a role in inspiring me to push boundaries and aim higher. I’m just getting started.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
I believe in the power of self-care. Outside of work, I love staying active. Working out not only helps me take care of my physical health but also clears my mind and gives me the energy to be my best. I make sure to carve out “me time” to stay grounded and focused. When it comes to motivating my team, I lead by example. I show them that resilience comes from dedication and passion, and that no matter how tough things get, we can overcome it together.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
There are many, but two people stand out—my mom, Helen Devera, and my dad, Rene Vicente. They taught me the value of hard work and that the sky is the limit. Growing up, they made sure I knew that being an immigrant didn’t define my ability to succeed. Their unwavering belief in me, even when I doubted myself, has been a constant source of inspiration. I owe so much to their sacrifices and love.
What do you hope to achieve in the next 5-10 years, and how do you plan to get there?
In the next 5-10 years, I hope to continue growing and expanding my impact in hospitality, particularly in leadership roles that allow me to mentor others and create positive change. I want to further champion diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in the industry. To get there, I will stay committed to learning, building relationships, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. My fiancé, Craig Bixel, has been my biggest support in this journey, and I know that with his encouragement, and the lessons I’ve learned from those around me, the future holds endless opportunities.
What advice would you give to aspiring hospitality leaders looking to develop their skills and expertise?
My advice is simple—never stop learning, and never let setbacks define you. Find your passion and pursue it relentlessly. Success doesn’t require perfection; it requires dedication, resilience, and the courage to keep going even when things get tough. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who believe in you, and always remember to stay humble and uplift others along the way. There’s no limit to what you can achieve if you’re willing to work hard and stay true to your purpose.