Parker Henderson

Biography

Parker Henderson brings over 25 years of convention hotel and golf resort experience to his adjunct professor role at Virginia Tech. As a hospitality professional, he has a passion for Front Office operations and Revenue Management. Parker has been with Hilton since 2003 and has held property level leadership roles in Austin, San Diego, Baltimore, and Orlando before joining Hilton’s Corporate Front Office Team in 2012. In his current role as Brand Director for Embassy Suites by Hilton, Parker works to ensure the current and long-term success of his hotels in revenue, loyalty and guest satisfaction. He works closely with global brand leaders, hotel management companies, ownership groups and front-line hotel leaders.

Parker received his BSBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Appalachian State University and his MSBA-HTM at Virginia Tech. Throughout his career, Parker has had a passion for hospitality education – leading Hilton training workshops throughout the country, speaking at industry conferences and several university HTM programs. Professor Henderson resides in Washington D.C.

Teaching

• HTM 5534 - Business Strategy in the Hospitality Industry
• HTM 5444 – Financial Management in the Hospitality Industry

Education

• MSBA, Hospitality & Tourism Management, Virginia Tech, Falls Church, VA, 2020
• BSBA, Hospitality & Tourism Management, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, 1999

Background

Certifications

• Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics – Smith Travel Research/American Hotel & Lodging Association

Previous Teaching Experience

• Mesa College – San Diego, CA, 2008

Relevant Industry

• Brand Director – Embassy Suites by Hilton – McLean, VA, since 2021
• Corporate Director of Front Office – Hilton, McLean, VA, 2012-2021
• Director of Front Office – Waldorf Astoria Orlando, FL, 2010-2012
• Director of Front Office – Hilton Baltimore, MD, 2008-2009
• Director of Front Office – Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, San Diego, CA, 2005-2008
• Assistant Director of Front Office – Hilton Austin, TX, 2003-2005
• Assistant Front Office Manager – Barton Creek Resort, Austin, TX, 2001-2003
• Manager in Development – Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst, NC, 1999-2000