"The visionary starts with a clean sheet of paper, and re-imagines the world."
- Malcolm Gladwell
ABOUT ME
I’m a strategic Product and Technology Leader with a passion for driving innovation, optimizing distribution connectivity, and delivering measurable business impact. With extensive experience in hotel technology and SaaS solutions, I’ve led global product and operations teams responsible for the delivery of over $5 billion in annual revenue. My expertise spans product management, API development, revenue optimization, and stakeholder engagement, and I thrive at the intersection of technology and business strategy.
I have a track record of building and mentoring high-performing, engaged teams, developing data-driven roadmaps, and collaborating across organizations to solve complex challenges. Whether it’s spearheading new product initiatives, optimizing existing solutions, or driving industry standards, my goal is to create seamless, scalable solutions that enhance both business operations and customer experiences.
Beyond my work, I actively contribute to the industry as a former HEDNA Board Member, AHLA Workgroup Chair, and a thought leader in distribution technology.
Let’s connect and explore how innovation can drive the future of travel and hospitality technology!
SKILLS & EXPERTISE
My progressive experience enables me to excel in several key areas:
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- Hotel Systems & Technology (PMS, CRS, S&C)
- Distribution Systems (GDS, OTA, Meta, OBPs)
- Product & IT Project Management
- Executive Communication & Presentations
- SaaS Sales
- Agile Methodologies
- API Development, Integration & Management
- Whiteboarding & Facilitation
- Relationship Building
- Training
Gianna Rivera - HBX Group
"I have had the pleasure to collaborate with April over the last few years as members and more recently as co-board members of HEDNA. Her dedication, work ethics and drive are impressive. Her superb Connectivity knowledge and her “lets get things done disposition” make her a valuable addition to any team ."
Charles Ross - Choice Hotels
"I have known April for over 10 years and I have been extremely impressed by her work ethics. April is skilled in leadership, various methodologies, project management and problem solving. Her ability to lead a team and get to the bottom of root causes is amazing... Her enthusiasm and energy will contribute to taking hospitality to the next level. I highly recommend April. She will be a value add to any organization."
Victor Azul - StayInTouch
"April is a go-getter and took initiative to always think outside the box to help any situation and find a resolution... I have always admired the hard work, willingness to learn, initiative, and striving for the very best that April brings to the Hospitality industry and as a matter of fact any industry. It was an absolute pleasure to work with April.
WORK EXPERIENCE
July 2024 - Present
Solutions Architect
Mews Systems
USA - Remote
April 2024 - Present
Founder & Managing Director
The SB Edit, LLC
Atlanta, GA
September 2022 - April 2024
Board Member
Hotel Electronic Distribution Networking Association
Atlanta, GA
April 2021 - April 2024
Director, Distribution Product - Global Connectivity
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Atlanta, GA
January 2019 - April 2021
Manager, Product B2B Management
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Atlanta, GA
August 2018 - January 2019
API Product Management
Equifax
Atlanta, GA
April 2016 - August 2018
Product Owner / Product Manager - B2B
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Atlanta, GA
September 2015 - April 2016
Product Manager - Partner Connectivity
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Atlanta, GA
July 2014 - September 2015
Business Analyst - Partner Connectivity
IHG Hotels & Resorts
Atlanta, GA
July 2012 - July 2014
Global Hotel Implementations Analyst
Orbitz Worldwide
Chicago, IL
March 2008 - July 2012
Agent & Analyst, Reservations Databases
Preferred Hotel Group
Chicago, IL
EDUCATION
In Progress
Master's of Business Administration (MBA)
Kennesaw State University
Atlanta, GA
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Bachelor of Science in Information Systems
w/concentration in IT Project Management
Strayer University
Atlanta, GA
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SAFe POPM. Agile CSPO. Pragmatic Marketing.
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KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Throughout my career in hospitality technology, I have consistently excelled by leveraging the power of relationships and teamwork. I have successfully led global, enterprise-level projects and launched industry-leading capabilities.
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Elected to the Board of HEDNA in 2022 and 2024. Championed HEDNA's role as Distribution domain experts and efforts to partner w/other Hospitality Associations like HSMAI.
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Served as a member of OpenTravel Alliance's Hospitality Working Group
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Chaired AHLA's Attribute Modeling for the Distribution Ecosystem workgroup, publishing a whitepaper and sample messaging.
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You can read it here: https://www.ahla.com/events/attribute-modeling-distribution-ecosystem.
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HIGHLIGHTS
CONTACT
Email: april.j.key@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apriljkey/
Location: Atlanta, GA