Member Showcase - CMP Spotlight - July 2024

Lance Hornecker, CMP Senior Director, Global Sales Davidson Hospitality Group Proud Volunteer, Creative Director, Communications, MPI-Georgia Chapter

* What motivated you to pursue the CMP designation?

I’ve always believed that knowledge is power. Back in 2000, when I was a newly minted sales manager at The Westin Peachtree Plaza, I began looking for ways to further my career and gain credibility with the planning community. The CMP designation was a way to gain the knowledge and insight I needed to speak effectively to my clients. 

* How did participation in the CMP Study Group support your studying to take the exam?

When it came to preparing for the CMP exam, there was no question that I was going to join the MPI Georgia Chapter Study Group. At the time, there were 3 of us working at the hotel sitting for the exam so it made perfect sense for us to join. What I didn’t expect was to make lifelong friends. If memory serves, there were about 15 of us in the study group.  Many of us have stayed close all these years. Building long-lasting relationships and memories was definitely an added plus.

* How did you feel when you saw the words "You Passed" ?

I was overjoyed and did two things:  1) I took myself out for a celebratory dinner and 2) I immediately ordered new business cards. 

* What benefits have you had career-wise as a result of having your CMP?
After 20+ years, the benefits seem endless. Not only did I make long-lasting connections with the planners I studied with on the committee, the designation itself is a conversation starter and gives the planners I work with a sense of ease that I understand the mechanics that go into meeting planning. In addition, I was able to advance my career from the property level, into a global sales position.

* Has having your CMP designation enhanced your position as a knowledgeable industry expert?
Most definitely. So much so that I’ve been a guest lecturer at Kennesaw State, UGA and Georgia State Universities…to name a few.

* Do you find information you learned while studying to take the exam helpful in your positions since earning your CMP and are you able to use some of the formulas, etc., to help guide meetings your clients source?
Absolutely. As a sales professional, when reading an RFP, I now have a greater understanding of what’s being asked and I can craft responses with the knowledge of what goes into setting a meeting room, ordering food & beverage, etc. I will NEVER forget the formulas we learned for how far the seats need to be from the stage, or how big a screen has to be in a room for a certain number of people.

* Reflecting on your having achieved the CMP designation, do you feel was it a good use of your time and resources to take that step?
Without a doubt. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. It was a wonderful experience. 

* What words of encouragement would you have for future CMP candidates?
If you are thinking about taking the CMP, just do it! Not only will it advance your career (knowledge is power), but you’ll make lifelong connections. That alone is priceless.

We hope Lance's words of encouragement will prompt you to explore earning your CMP.  For more information on the CMP designation and the MPI Georgia Chapter Fall CMP Study Group which meets on Zoom, please visit the link below.

https://www.mpi.org/chapters/georgia/education-events/cmp-study-group