Kristian Gathright on financial risk
From Krissy Gathright Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey · · It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast
“If you take on more leverage that's inevitably more risky; if you invest your funds in a more narrow pool of assets versus a broader, more diversified pool of assets that's more risky; if you rely on just one operator or one brand that's more risky than spreading relationships among strong high‑quality operators and brands.”
On , Kristian Gathright, Independent Director at APPLE HOSPITALITY REIT INC, spoke about financial risk during Krissy Gathright Interviewed by Rachel Humphrey on It's Personal Stories, A Hospitality Podcast.
About Kristian Gathright
Kristian "Krissy" Gathright, an independent director at Apple Hospitality REIT, has discussed her career trajectory and views on leadership in interviews. She described starting her career as an auditor at EY before moving into real estate and eventually becoming the first employee of what became Apple Suites, which later evolved into a publicly traded hospitality REIT. Gathright has emphasized the importance of passion, mentorship, and taking ownership of one's career path, stating that "mentors and champions are of critical importance" and that individuals should "take your path into your own hands." She has also spoken about risk management, noting that "being able to assess risk and think big picture" is important, and that diversification across brands and operators reduces risk. In earlier appearances, Gathright discussed Apple Hospitality REIT's operations and strategy. In a 2017 CNBC interview, then-CEO Justin Knight described the company as "broadly diversified" with low leverage and a focus on Hilton and Marriott brands. Gathright has also commented on specific projects, including a combined Residence Inn/Courtyard development in downtown Richmond and a partnership with Marriott, WorkSpring, and Steelcase to create flexible meeting spaces. She has addressed the impact of the 2008 recession on the Richmond Marriott and the company's efforts to stimulate local economic activity through conventions and events like the 2015 world championship bicycle road race.