Nichola Corfield: A Hospitality Leader Driving Excellence in Sales and Events

Nichola Corfield is a highly experienced hospitality professional and the Sales and Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull. With more than two decades of expertise in sales, marketing, and event management, she has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional meeting, conference, and event solutions to businesses, charities, and individuals. Known for her leadership, dedication, and ability to foster long-term strategic partnerships, Nichola Corfield has played a vital role in shaping the success of Crowne Plaza Solihull while also contributing to regional tourism and hospitality development.

Introduction

The hospitality industry thrives on service, relationships, and creating memorable experiences. Few professionals embody these qualities as seamlessly as Nichola Corfield. Her career, which spans over 20 years, reflects dedication to excellence, adaptability in a dynamic industry, and a genuine passion for connecting with people. Currently serving as the Sales and Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull, Nichola’s influence extends beyond the hotel itself, reaching into regional tourism initiatives and hospitality leadership. This article takes a deep dive into her professional journey, educational background, contributions to hospitality, and the lasting impact she has made on businesses and individuals alike.

Early Career in Hospitality

Nichola Corfield’s journey in hospitality began with a strong interest in event management and guest experiences. Early on, she pursued opportunities that allowed her to understand the core principles of hospitality: customer service, operational efficiency, and relationship building. Her first roles gave her insight into the daily workings of hotels and conference venues, setting a solid foundation for her future in sales and marketing leadership.

From the start, Nichola demonstrated not just organizational skill but also a keen ability to anticipate client needs. These qualities quickly made her stand out in a competitive field, paving the way for more senior positions within well-established hotel brands.

Education and Professional Development

To complement her natural leadership and interpersonal abilities, Nichola pursued education in hospitality management. Her studies equipped her with a deep understanding of hotel operations, business strategy, and customer-focused service delivery. Over the years, she has continued to develop professionally, embracing new trends in marketing, sales, and event technologies.

Her ability to combine formal education with real-world experience has been a key factor in her success. It has allowed her to adapt to shifts in the hospitality sector, including the rise of digital marketing, evolving customer expectations, and the growing importance of sustainability in event planning.

Career at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)

Before her current role at Crowne Plaza Solihull, Nichola Corfield gained valuable experience across several properties within the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) portfolio. She held key sales roles at major hotels, including:

Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC, where she built her expertise in managing high-volume business events and corporate bookings.

Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport, where she excelled in driving sales growth, building client relationships, and enhancing the property’s reputation as a preferred choice for travelers and event organizers.

Her time at IHG strengthened her skills in sales strategy, brand representation, and hospitality leadership. These experiences provided her with a broad perspective on how to balance local community needs with international hospitality standards.

Sales and Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull

Nichola Corfield’s appointment as Sales and Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull marked a significant chapter in her career. Since 2017, she has overseen the sales and marketing strategy for the property, ensuring that it remains one of the top choices for business meetings, conferences, weddings, and social gatherings in the West Midlands.

Her role involves:

Event Coordination: Managing everything from small board meetings to large conferences.

Client Relationships: Building long-term partnerships with businesses, charities, and organizations.

Marketing Strategy: Promoting the hotel’s facilities, location, and services to attract both local and international clients.

Revenue Growth: Driving consistent growth through strategic planning and exceptional service delivery.

Her leadership has been instrumental in positioning Crowne Plaza Solihull as a trusted venue that delivers not just services, but experiences.

Facilities and Services at Crowne Plaza Solihull

Under Nichola’s guidance, the hotel continues to showcase its outstanding amenities:

Meetings and Events: With 12 versatile meeting spaces, the hotel can host up to 200 guests, making it ideal for conferences, training sessions, and private events.

Accommodation: Featuring 120 modern bedrooms, including premium rooms and suites, the hotel provides comfort and convenience for guests.

Dining: The Terrace restaurant and scenic lakeside terrace offer exceptional dining experiences, blending modern cuisine with relaxing views.

Leisure Facilities: Guests enjoy access to a heated pool, sauna, hot tub, and fitness center—perfect for relaxation after events or business meetings.

By promoting these facilities with a personalized touch, Nichola ensures that each client feels valued and that every event exceeds expectations.

Chair of the Solihull Tourism Forum

Beyond her work at the hotel, Nichola Corfield contributes to the wider community as the Chair of the Solihull Tourism Forum. In this role, she has been a strong advocate for local tourism development, working to attract visitors and strengthen the hospitality sector.

During significant events like the Commonwealth Games 2022 and Coventry City of Culture 2021, Nichola played a pivotal role in aligning tourism efforts to maximize regional opportunities. Her leadership in this area demonstrates her commitment not just to one establishment but to the broader growth of the West Midlands hospitality and tourism industry.

Leadership Style and Professional Values

Nichola Corfield’s leadership style is characterized by:

Collaboration: She values teamwork and encourages open communication among colleagues.

Client-Centered Approach: Every decision revolves around creating meaningful experiences for clients and guests.

Innovation: She embraces modern marketing tools and creative event solutions to keep ahead of industry trends.

Community Engagement: Her involvement in tourism forums highlights her belief in giving back and fostering growth in the local area.

These values set her apart as a leader who balances business goals with genuine care for people.

Impact on Businesses and Individuals

One of Nichola’s greatest strengths is her ability to build long-term strategic partnerships. Businesses trust her to deliver consistently excellent services, while individuals rely on her to make personal events memorable. Whether it’s a charity fundraiser, a corporate conference, or a wedding, Nichola ensures every event runs smoothly, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Her contributions have also directly benefited the reputation of Crowne Plaza Solihull. Positive client testimonials often highlight the professionalism and attentiveness of Nichola and her team, which continues to strengthen customer loyalty.

Navigating Challenges in Hospitality

The hospitality industry has faced immense challenges in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nichola Corfield’s ability to adapt was crucial during this period. She focused on creating safe, flexible solutions for clients while maintaining service excellence. This adaptability reinforced her reputation as a leader who can navigate uncertainty with resilience and innovation.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Nichola Corfield is expected to continue shaping the future of hospitality in Solihull and beyond. With sustainability, digital innovation, and evolving customer expectations at the forefront of industry change, her experience and leadership position her well to drive progress.

Her continued involvement in both Crowne Plaza Solihull and regional tourism initiatives ensures that her influence will remain significant for years to come.

Conclusion

Nichola Corfield’s career is a testament to what passion, expertise, and leadership can achieve in the hospitality industry. From her early roles to her current position as Sales and Marketing Manager at Crowne Plaza Solihull, she has consistently delivered excellence while building strong partnerships and supporting regional growth. Her impact extends beyond the walls of the hotel, making her a respected figure in both the hospitality and tourism sectors.

For businesses, charities, and individuals seeking exceptional service and unforgettable experiences, Nichola Corfield remains a trusted and inspiring professional.