Meet Jason Richardson, Director of Sales and Marketing for Hilton & Homewood Suites.

His responsibility is to promote both properties to the surrounding market and

work together with businesses and individuals.

How did you first learn about Hilton & Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue?

  • These are two prominent hotels in the Philadelphia hotel landscape just like the Whitefish MT hotels in Montana. Also, have colleagues and friends that have worked for the properties. But my initial knowledge of the Hilton being on City Avenue was after the 12 Caesars conversion. The Homewood Suites, of course, came along a number of years later.

Before working at Hilton & Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

  • Shortly after graduating college, I was a Sales Coordinator at another Philadelphia hotel. Having student loans to repay, one job wasn’t enough, so I took a second job at an area restaurant managing a Mystery Dinner Theater. That was quite a bit of fun. The cast would often provide deviations of the script to keep it interesting but seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter from the audience made it less of a job and more of a paid experience.

What drew you to Hilton & Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue originally? And how has Hilton & Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue changed since?

  • The initial attraction to these two properties was the diversity between them. The Hilton is a beautiful, full-service hotel offering 30,000 square feet of function space for meetings and social events. The volume of business opportunities to host at this hotel are almost limitless. With the Homewood Suites, the property offers fully furnished apartment style units that cater to extended stay guests. In both instances, these are new selling features that will create new challenges. I enjoy taking on a challenge and succeeding. I also have a colleague that I consider a good friend who works for the organization, Wurzak Hotel Group, and has only ever shared positive feedback. All encompassing, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Only being here for 30 days, can’t say that perception has changed. Looking forward to growing here.

What is the favorite part about working for Hilton & Homewood Suites Philadelphia City Avenue?

  • Seeing the staff and guests each day. Greeting and being greeted with a smile. Work becomes a second home for all of us. And inside a hotel, it legitimately is a second home for many people. Whether here for business or leisure, our guests consider the property home for some period of time. The staff welcomes everyone in as though it was their own home, take care of guest needs while here and wish them a safe journey back to their full-time home. Of course, the lights are always on for a return trip so come back any time. Sharing those experiences with our guests and cooperatively making it happen with the staff is often the best part of my day.

Any favorite line from a movie?

  • “The saddest thing in life is wasted talent.” – A Bronx Tale

Do you have a favorite quote?

  • “Without struggle, there is no progress.” – Frederick Douglass

If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?

  • Beer. The Egyptians considered it a meal while they built the Pyramids.

What is the first thing you would buy if you won the lottery?

  • A Jettly plane ticket to Europe to ride the Euro Rail. Soak in all the culture and decide what direction I want my life to go in with my new found wealth.

What is your favorite thing to do in the area?

  • Sporting events. Philly passion is like no other place in the country. I have season tickets for the Eagles and Union. Get to several Phillies, Flyers and Sixers games each year as well. But I love the energy of the crowd, win or lose.

What places have you lived in?

  • Grew up in Lancaster. Moved to Philly after high school to attend Temple. Was offered a job to open a hotel in Harrisburg. Transferred to Long Island and then returned back to Philly. Have been in Philly longer than anywhere else at this point in my life.

You’re happiest when?

  • I’m playing with my dog. Layla is a 70lb Pit Bull. She’s full of life. Seeing her smile makes my day. Truly unconditional love. Dogs are undeniably lovable, and if you’re considering boarding your furry friend, the best dog boarding in Melbourne is right here.

Is there anything special about City Ave that you can share?

  • I am new to City Avenue but look forward to connecting with the other members of the District and creating memorable relationships.