Shawna D. Payne, MBA, CHC, serves as Chief Operating Officer, where she leads operations, strategy, and execution across the company’s hospitality, real estate development, and consulting portfolio. With over 20 years of experience spanning business management, operations, leadership development, and entrepreneurship, she is instrumental in driving organizational strategy, operational excellence, and scalable growth across a diverse portfolio of projects.
Shawna oversees day-to-day operations, streamlines internal systems, and leads strategic initiatives that support seamless development and execution of high-impact hospitality and real estate ventures. She ensures alignment between vision and delivery, upholding the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and stakeholder experience, while advancing the company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and thoughtful community impact.
Recognized for her influence and thought leadership, Shawna has been featured on national and international platforms, contributing insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and business strategy. She is deeply committed to economic empowerment, community development, and creating pathways for sustainable success through innovative business practices.
Shawna holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Leadership Development from the University of Maryland Global Campus, a Women’s Entrepreneurship Certificate from Cornell University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland, College Park. She brings a refined, people-centered approach to leadership that enhances organizational performance while elevating long-term value creation.