Lansdowne Resort Announces Carol Smith as New Managing Director
Smith Breaking Barriers in Hospitality Leadership
Leesburg, VA, (June 12, 2025) – Lansdowne Resort, a premier destination in Northern Virginia, proudly announces the appointment of Carol Smith as its new Managing Director. In an industry where executive leadership roles are predominantly held by men, Smith’s appointment marks a significant milestone, reinforcing Lansdowne’s commitment to diversity, equity, and excellence in hospitality.
With an impressive career spanning over three decades in the hospitality and travel industry, Smith brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and strategic vision to her new role. Her appointment places her among a small but growing group of female leaders who are shattering the glass ceiling in the full-service hospitality sector.
Smith was part of the original management team that launched Lansdowne Resort in 1991 and came back in 2021 as Director of Sales and Marketing. Since her return, she has been instrumental in restoring the resort to its former glory, strengthening its brand presence, enhancing guest experiences, and driving substantial revenue growth. Her expertise in sales, marketing, and business strategy has positioned Lansdowne as a top-tier destination for those seeking unique wellness experiences, championship golf, and seamless business and social gatherings.
Prior to her tenure at Lansdowne, Smith held key leadership roles at renowned hospitality brands such as Omega World Travel, Airlie, Boar’s Head Resort, and Benchmark Resorts & Hotels. At Airlie Conference Center, she led a team that achieved an impressive 30% increase in year-over-year revenue growth, underscoring her ability to drive success in a competitive market. Throughout her career, Smith has demonstrated an exceptional talent for repositioning brands, optimizing sales strategies, and fostering meaningful industry partnerships.
“I am honored to take on this new role,” said Smith. “This property holds a special place in my career, and I am committed to elevating the guest experience, expanding our offerings, and driving continued success for the resort. As a woman in hospitality leadership, I also hope to inspire the next generation of female professionals to pursue executive roles in this dynamic industry.”
Smith’s leadership philosophy centers on relationship management, talent development, and strategic innovation. She is known for building and motivating high-performing teams, developing strong community partnerships, and implementing forward-thinking initiatives that align with evolving industry trends.
“We are thrilled to welcome Carol into this leadership position,” said Mrs. Li, owner of Lansdowne Resort. “Her extensive experience, deep understanding of our resort’s operations, and passion for hospitality make her the ideal choice to lead Lansdowne into its next chapter of success.”
With Smith at the helm, Lansdowne Resort is poised to continue its legacy as a premier destination for business and leisure travelers alike, further enhancing its reputation for excellence and innovation.
For additional information, visit lansdowneresort.com.