Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa Associate Named Supplier of the Year

FLORENCE, AL--(Marketwire - Nov 14, 2011) - Jonathan McKinney, Director of Group Sales at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, had an unconventional, yet logical, start in the hospitality industry, dressing up as a pirate and greeting kids at a Panama City Beach hotel. While he's put away the eye patch and swashbuckling boots, that spirit of service is just one of the reasons he was named Supplier of the Year by the Rocket City-Alabama Chapter of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (RCAC-SGMP).

McKinney has held his director position at our Florence, Alabama hotel since July 2010, and his efforts have paid off, helping the sales team exceed their 2011 goals by 27%, focusing on both corporate and government markets. His involvement with the RCAC-SGMP started in 2009, as the founding member of Alabama's first and only chapter. "When we reached out around the state for potential members," Marie Arighi, RCAC's second vice president and last year's Supplier of the Year winner, says, "[he] was the first to respond... [He] jumped in with both feet and embraced the organization and its mission."

The nonprofit organization aims to "enhance the knowledge and expertise of individuals in the planning and management of government meetings through education, resources and networking," and McKinney is a shining example in his role at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, where he works to provide facilities and services to government planners at our Shoals hotel.

At the Annual Recognition Banquet, held October 25^th in Huntsville, RCAC Vice President Arighi presented McKinney with his award for his contributions both at our hotel and spa Florence, Alabama and within the RCAC-SGMP organization. She read descriptions from other members about McKinney, which included his ability to make one feel instantly welcomed, his constant smile, his consistent support of the chapter and his recognition of others' achievements.

McKinney is just one example of the outstanding team members you'll encounter at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. To learn more about the hotel, visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mslmc-marriott-shoals-hotel-and-spa/, where you can book packages for weekend getaways from Nashville, explore nearby attractions, peruse menus from our delicious in-house restaurants and learn more about our 30,000 sq ft of elegant event space.

About The Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa

Set in the scenic Tennessee River Valley, the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa offers Southern hospitality, restrained elegance and natural beauty in a charming resort setting. Guest rooms feature private balconies with stunning river views, luxurious bathrooms with deep garden bathtubs, plush bedding, large desks with ergonomic chairs and high-speed Internet access. Golfers are just minutes away from two championship Robert Trent Jones courses, offering challenges for skilled and beginning golfers alike. Fitness opportunities on property include an indoor pool, an outdoor pool with waterslide and fitness center. After a day on the greens or an intense workout, treat yourself at our 6,000 sq ft European Spa at the Shoals, offering a full menu of therapies, from massages to facials. The Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa offers easy access to shopping and fine dining, but you'll also find delicious dining options in-house, including the city's only revolving restaurant, 360 Grille, and its sister lounge, with refreshing cocktails and an award-winning wine selection. At Swampers Bar and Grill, hear the sounds of the South with live music in a casual setting. Our beautiful property is the ideal setting for weddings, meeting and events, with 30,000 sq ft of elegant banquet space and an on-site exhibition space.