Episode 53: Redefining Financial Leadership in Hospitality with David Lund

In this episode of The Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with David Lund, widely known as The Hotel Financial Coach, for a transformative conversation about the evolving role of financial leadership in the hospitality industry.

With over four decades of experience in hotel operations and finance—including senior roles at Fairmont Hotels—David Lund has made it his mission to demystify finance for hotel leaders, empowering them to understand and own their numbers. This episode explores the often-overlooked connection between financial literacy and leadership effectiveness, and how a culture of fiscal engagement can unlock new levels of performance and accountability across all departments.

From Lund’s early experiences overcoming a stutter and learning teamwork through sports, to his shift from hotel operations into the world of financial coaching, his story is one of resilience, insight, and practical wisdom. He shares actionable advice for general managers, department heads, and aspiring leaders, including how to manage budgets, create financially engaged teams, and approach numbers with confidence—not fear.

Listeners will learn why every department head should think like a CFO, how zero-based budgeting can change the way hotels plan, and why imperfection in financial management can actually lead to stronger, more agile decision-making.

Whether you're a seasoned GM or new to leadership, this episode is a masterclass in financial empowerment, hospitality excellence, and the kind of conscious leadership that drives sustainable success.

Key Takeaways:

• Financial literacy is a leadership skill—not just an accounting function

• Investing in people yields long-term business success

• Team sports and life experiences shape leadership development

• Financial transparency fosters stronger, more accountable teams

• Department heads must be empowered to lead like CFOs

• Zero-based budgeting encourages intentional spending

• Embracing imperfection helps leaders take more courageous action

• Effective morning meetings can shape culture and performance

• Practical financial coaching is missing in many hospitality curriculums

• The future of hospitality depends on developing financially confident leaders