Maria Manzella
November 2, 2026 |
Spotlight
Member Spotlight:
Maria Manzella
Director of Sales and Strategic Growth
International House Hotel
Maria Manzella didn’t necessarily set out to build a career in tourism, but looking back, it has been the perfect fit. Over the past 30 years, she had the opportunity to grow her career across hospitality, tourism, and destination marketing, all while maintaining a strong connection to New Orleans.
She spent more than 12 years with New Orleans & Company, where Maria worked in international sales and development, building relationships with travel partners around the world. She loved the opportunity to introduce new audiences to New Orleans and help turn those connections into meaningful business for our city.
She later joined the Louisiana Office of Tourism as Director, leading a team responsible for international markets and global marketing initiatives. That experience broadened her perspective on destination development, collaboration, and the importance of tourism strategy.
Today, Maria is back in New Orleans on the hospitality side as Director of Sales and Strategic Growth at International House Hotel. She’s excited to bring her destination marketing experience into a boutique hotel environment, where she can help build relationships, develop new business opportunities, and contribute to the continued evolution of a property rooted in the culture and spirit of the city.
Tourism is about connection, and Maria has been fortunate to work alongside people who share a passion for making our destinations thrive. She believes organizations like MSWIT are important because they create opportunities for women in tourism to connect, share knowledge, support one another, and grow professionally.
Our industry is stronger when we celebrate each other, make room for new voices, and build relationships that extend beyond our individual organizations. Maria looks forward to continuing the journey alongside so many talented women in tourism.