Meet Our People: Welcome to Memphis - Board of Directors - Michelle Lewis-Flowers

Michelle Lewis-Flowers

Vice President of Human Resources

Michelle Lewis-Flowers started in the hospitality industry as a seasonal associate in retail at Graceland. Thirty-five years later she is still there, but her title has changed somewhat over the intervening years! Before she made the move to HR, Michelle held several positions, including merchandise associate, lead supervisor, and manager. For the past seven years, she’s held the title of Vice President of Human Resources.

“Throughout the years, Graceland has had several projects – Heartbreak Hotel, EP’s Restaurant on Beale, Hunt Phelan house, Paisley Park and many more,” she says. “I was fortunate to work with the team as these projects were coming together. I was able to learn so many different aspects of the business to include operations and HR.”

Please meet Michelle Lewis-Flowers, an amazing member of the WTM Board of Directors!

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I like to see people develop and thrive and I love helping people and solving problems. I think there is always something to learn from others and it is everyone’s responsibility to help each other. The hospitality industry is about serving people. Those who work in the industry need leaders that support and appreciate the job that they do. 

What do you find most rewarding about being a leader in the Memphis hospitality industry?  

Being a part of the hospitality industry means you get the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. The experiences visitors have in Memphis are shaped by their interactions with our teams. We all become a part of their memories. But more importantly, interactions with people who are different from us provide invaluable opportunities to strengthen our communication and interpersonal skills – which in turn helps us to be better people. When we are exposed to cultural differences, we can understand and appreciate each other. I find it rewarding to know that we can facilitate growth by the way we support and lead our teams. We can provide the tools to show to the world great things about our citizens and what our city has to offer.

Why does the Welcome to Memphis mission resonate with you?

The workforce that supports the hospitality industry is very important. Proper training, recognition, and motivation are all key aspects to delivering great service to all who visit our city.

What do you think the future holds for Welcome to Memphis?

A continued effort to support and spotlight our great city and those who work in the hospitality industry. The training and support that Welcome to Memphis provides helps provide partners and bonds within the industry.

When you have visitors to Memphis, what are three places you always take them?

Graceland, Civil Rights Museum, and Cooper-Young.

What advice would you give to someone new to the hospitality industry?

Be patient and kind always. Learn to understand and appreciate everyone’s differences and know that you can learn something from everyone you encounter. Every day and every encounter could be an opportunity to make a first impression.

Thank you for your outstanding example of authentic Memphis hospitality, Michelle!