Gely Quinonez

Luxury Travel Agent | Travel Operations Manager | Expert Management of Complex Itineraries & VIP Clients | Hospitality & Event Planner

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States

About

Luxury Travel Professional with years of experience designing and managing high-end, tailor-made itineraries for VIP and family clients across the U.S., Caribbean, and international destinations. In addition, I bring over a decade of experience in hospitality and tourism since 2013. I specialize in delivering seamless, personalized travel experiences, from initial planning to 24/7 concierge support, ensuring every detail is executed with precision and care. I’ve managed complex, multi-destination itineraries, coordinated with global suppliers, and consistently exceeded client expectations. My background also includes hospitality and events, where I developed strong skills in guest experience, team leadership, and operations. Trilingual in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I thrive in fast-paced environments, build strong client relationships, and am passionate about creating exceptional, stress-free experiences.

Experience

  • Excursionist ()
    • Luxury Travel Operations Manager
      Jan 2025 - Nov 2025 · 11 mos

      As Luxury Travel Operations Manager, I trained and supervised a Luxury Travel Operations Coordinator, overseeing all aspects of itinerary planning, supplier coordination, and CRM systems. This transition allowed me to focus on delivering high-touch, 24/7 concierge services to VIP clients, ensuring seamless and personalized luxury travel experiences. Additionally, I supported the Director of Operations in onboarding and training new team members, providing guidance on internal processes, client management, and service standards. My role combined leadership, mentorship, and hands-on concierge expertise to maintain the highest level of service and operational excellence.

    • Luxury Travel Operations Coordinator
      Feb 2022 - Dec 2024 · 2 yrs 11 mos

      Managed the end-to-end planning and execution of high-end, tailor-made itineraries for VIP and family travelers. Coordinated all travel components, including luxury accommodations, private transportation, tours, dining, and wellness experiences, while adhering to client budgets and preferences. Provided 24/7 concierge support during travel, handling real-time changes, arranging additional experiences, and ensuring seamless daily operations. Delivered client support in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Post-travel, collaborated with accounting to review cost reports, verify supplier payments, and provide detailed client feedback to enhance service quality.

  • Events Coordinator & Lead Hostess at sbe Lifestyle Hospitality
    Oct 2020 - Dec 2021 · 1 yr 3 mos

    Coordinated private events and managed VIP guest experiences, providing attentive service from the moment guests entered the restaurant. Led and trained a team of hostesses on customer service and internal systems to ensure seamless, personalized attention for all clients. Assisted the restaurant manager with staff supervision, inventory management, and purchase orders. Negotiated and secured large group bookings, contributing significantly to revenue growth while maintaining high standards of service excellence.

  • Corporate Administrative Assistant at Link Hospitality Corp
    Jul 2019 - Apr 2020 · 10 mos

    Oversaw and managed the company’s payroll system for over 400 employees, including rollout and training across thirty hotel properties in Miami and Miami Beach. Managed incoming and outgoing correspondence, coordinated press meetings and events, and scheduled appointments with clients and vendors. Responsible for organizing and maintaining the efficiency of daily office operations, as well as assisting with purchase orders and procurement.

  • East Hotel (1 yr 4 mos)
    • Administrative Assistant
      Mar 2019 - Jun 2019 · 4 mos

      Conducted market research and prepared quotations with suppliers, assisting with purchase orders and procurement. Managed monthly inventory and handled all administrative and logistical tasks for the department. Utilized Adaco inventory management software to oversee purchase ordering and inventory tracking. Assisted the department manager with budgeting, including preparing and processing invoices and expense reports to ensure financial accuracy and operational efficiency.

    • F&B Training Program
      Mar 2018 - Mar 2019 · 1 yr 1 mo

      Completed a one-year rotational training program within the Food & Beverage department, gaining hands-on experience across multiple roles, including Hostess, Busser, Barista, Food Runner, Banquet Server, and Supervision. Developed a comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations, guest service excellence, team collaboration, and staff training, building a strong foundation in hospitality management and service delivery.

  • Sales Travel Agent / Travel Consultant at Group Travel
    Mar 2013 - Feb 2018 · 5 yrs

    Designed and sold comprehensive travel arrangements directly to clients, including itineraries, excursions, hotels, and flights. Provided expert travel consultations for domestic and worldwide trips and assisted with visa applications for international destinations. Additionally, supervised accounts receivable and payable, maintained the client database, and provided personal training to new staff.