SHELTON, Conn. — June 3, 2019—Julie Martin Barfield, general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott/Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square announced today that Krissi Grubka, has been named director of sales for the180-room, dual-brand hotel.

Most recently, Grubka was the sales and marketing manager for the Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel and Conference Center where she was responsible for group and business transient sales. She began her hospitality career at the Best Western Plus in East Syracuse where she was the director of sales and marketing.

“Krissi brings tremendous market knowledge to this job, and an early background in marketing design, will help us capitalize on our superior location and offerings in an increasingly competitive market,” said Martin Barfield. “She has a passion for upstate New York and helping visitors get the most from all that it has to offer, and that enthusiasm makes a real difference in the guest’s experience.”

“These hotels helped solidify Armory Square’s position as a true destination in Syracuse,” Grubka said. “Whether traveling for business, pleasure or visiting Syracuse University, visitors want to be in the heart of the city. I’m confident that we can capitalize on our central location, brand recognition and exceptional extras like downtown’s only indoor pool to grow our market share.”

Armory Square is a six-block planned city center boasting office and residential buildings and a thriving commercial/entertainment scene with more than two dozen bars and restaurants, the Museum of Science and Technology, the historic Landmark Theatre and 20-plus stores, salons and boutiques.

Courtyard by Marriott/Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square offers valet parking, complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel and features a shared lobby, pool and 1,400 square feet of meeting space. The Bistro, a casual dining concept featuring flexible seating, quick, freshly prepared breakfast, light bites and cocktails, is a signature feature of the Courtyard by Marriott brand. Guests of the Residence Inn are treated to the brand’s complimentary, daily breakfast, designed to provide a sense of community for guests away from home.