Member Spotlight: Liz Dahlager, Chief Operating Officer, Mereté Hotel Management

This week’s Women Leading Travel Member Spotlight features Liz Dahlager, chief operating officer of Mereté Hotel Management. From building a sustainable approach to leadership to embracing the power of community and connection, Dahlager shares the lessons, values and experiences that have shaped her career in hospitality.

1. What’s the best book you’ve read recently?

"The Lion Women of Tehran" by Marjan Kamali.

2. What do you love most about the industry?

The people — my colleagues, the hospitality community, the owners, the guests. It’s all about the people.

3. What is something the community may be surprised to learn about you?

I didn’t plan to work in hotels. It was my seasonal high school and college job.

4. What’s the toughest part of being in charge?

It never ends — the decisions, the questions, the challenges, etc. It doesn’t stop. There’s always something to do.

5. What are your nonnegotiables when it comes to work-life balance?

This has changed over time. Currently, it’s a minimum of one week a quarter when I take a break. It could be consecutive days or two longer weekends, but I have noticed that with more responsibility, my stress level is higher, and I need to take more time away to be able to show up how I want to.

I also take more time when I’m traveling for work. Before, I might have flown in and out the same day or within 24 hours. I don’t do that anymore. I am very focused on working at a high level sustainably, which I think speaks to work-life balance.

6. What woman inspires you right now and why?

Lately, Michelle Obama brings me a lot of peace. She evokes a sense of calm and the ability to take up space in a way I admire. Another might be Liz Kidder — she’s an amazing thru-hiker I follow!

7. What is one industry trend you’re tracking and why?

Senior living communities and coworking spaces. There is so much crossover with hotels and how these communal spaces might evolve in the future. I find it fascinating.

8. What is one thing you look for when interviewing a job candidate?

The ability to communicate well.

9. What’s something that you learned about yourself in the past year?

I say 'yes' too much. I am learning to be slower to answer and to say no sometimes.

10. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Do the job before you get the job. Think like you are already in the “goal job.”

11. What values are most important to you as a leader?

Integrity, excellence and compassion.

12. What’s the most important thing people should know about you?

I am passionate about doing a good job. I love working and working with people who are just as excited about what we do as I am!

13. What’s a tip you have for productively leading a hybrid team?

Evaluate regularly scheduled meetings quarterly to be sure they are useful. Create space for casual connection, in person and virtually, so team members have options that fit their individual needs. Share deadlines with everyone so you’re not the only one holding people accountable — team accountability is very important. Be available and respond in a timely manner.

14. Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to? Why?

Kauai — it’s beautiful and relaxing, and the vibe is tranquil.

15. What is the top item on your bucket list?

A tour through Europe — I’ve never been!

16. What do you do to recharge?

Yoga, walking the dogs and a weekend away with my husband and family.

17. What is your biggest accomplishment?

Being in a position to impact other women and being an industry advocate. Just generally being able to contribute to the future of hospitality is very rewarding.

18. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Be brave, keep going and make it your own.

19. What gets you up in the morning?

Three beagles and coffee.

20. What do you like most about being a member of Women Leading Travel?

The community and the connections. It’s been a valuable experience for me, and I have enjoyed all the resources so much.

Connect with Liz on LinkedIn to learn more.