By Denman Wall 
This month, we resume our ongoing eInterview series, something that has been a real joy to produce. The series has allowed me to get to know more of our members on a more personal basis. Although I see the interviewees at various NYSAE events, these eInterviews provide a glimpse into the career paths and stories of those who have participated.
When I first met Matt Schechter about 10 years ago at an NYSAE event, I was immediately impressed with his professionalism, positive attitude, and sheer spirit for the nonprofit sector. Whether it is volunteering for a committee, attending a seminar or participating in Meet NY, Matt is attentive, productive and probably one of the best listeners I have met in my professional career.
Without further ado, here is the eInterview:
Denman Wall: Matt, thanks so much for your time in participating in our InView Newsletter e-Interview. Our members each bring a wealth of experience and interesting stories about their career paths and we would like to share yours with them. First, tell our readers about what you’re up to these days.
Matt Schechter: I have been engaged with the New York City hospitality community in various capacities for more than 15 years. Beginning in May 2017, I took on the role of Regional Director, National Accounts, Northeast, Convention Sales at NYC & Company, the official destination marketing organization for the five boroughs. I simultaneously present substantial business opportunities to great product throughout the city—including hotels, venues, restaurants, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and more—while providing large groups with access to these partners, resulting in ease of booking.
Denman: Thanks for that. New York certainly has an incredible vibe, second to none! What would you say is the most exciting aspect of working closely with the association and non-profit community here in The Big Apple?
Matt: It is always exciting to learn about the focus and initiatives of our New York Associations, as well as discovering what drives the diverse individuals who comprise those associations in their efforts. Being able to then apply my knowledge of the countless hotels, venues, and neighborhoods throughout NYC (250+) to match associations with experiences they would appreciate is a challenge I eagerly accept!
Denman: What initiatives are you most excited to be working on currently as part of NYC & Company?
Matt: An initiative I’m excited to share on behalf of NYC & Company is hosting the annual Tri-State Meeting Planner Event. On Global Meeting Industry Day (April 12, 2018) the new NFL Experience Times Square in the heart of the ‘New Midtown’—an area encompassing more than 5 major new attractions that have opened in and around Times Square in the past year—will welcome more than 100 of our closest hotel/venue/restaurant members and our top meeting planner customers. The event promises to be one where connections are made, relationships are deepened, and awareness of NYC product is heightened.
Denman: That sounds awesome! I’ll have to stop by and check it out. Tell us a little more about how your participation in NYSAE over the past decade has been a factor in your personal success as a hospitality professional and for the organizations you have represented.
Matt: NYSAE has been extremely helpful in introducing me to top association executives in the industry. Through developing relationships with these individuals, I have been able to pursue opportunities I otherwise might not have had access to, which has been beneficial to both the organizations I have represented and my personal career goals.
Denman: What can NYSAE do to ensure that it provides continuous support to the hospitality sector in the greater New York City area?
Matt: NYSAE has a long history of hosting events with excellent content and we look forward to being a part of its continued success. I think collaboration is crucial. I love how NYSAE along with other industry associations such as MPI and PCMA get together on an annual basis for the summer bash. I would encourage continued collaboration so we can all network together for the betterment of our industry!
Denman: If you could share a few tips with your industry peers who want to advance their careers, what would those be?
Matt: My number one recommendation would be to keep in touch with your peers and then use those resources! Personally, my
LinkedIn network of more than 7,000 connections allows me to follow along with career developments of past and present colleagues and often a post or a new position announcement sparks an idea to collaborate. While it may seem daunting to amass and keep up with a professional online network, there are ways to make the most of the tools available through the platform. For instance, whenever I am in a city on business I run a location-based search and make an effort to re-connect in person with whoever is based nearby. That said, if you are reading this and we are not already connected, please feel free to reach out!
http://linkedin.com/in/schechter1982 Thanks, Matt, for participating in our eInterview series!
Denman Wall is Sr. Director of Interactive Services at Dolci Management and is the editor of InView Newsletter.