A proud Persian-American and the national business development manager at O’Connor Tax Reduction Experts, Mona Govahi has made significant strides in the hospitality industry over the past decade.
From advocating for diversity and inclusion to generating billions in revenue for her company, Mona’s story is one of resilience, leadership and a commitment to empowering others.
When the Women of Color Power List 2025 asked her about her past 12 months’ growth, Mona said, “Generating $7 billion in 2024 revenue for O’Connor within my department; expanding my educational outreach into the multi-unit apartment sector; diversifying the company’s portfolio; and leading O’Connor’s sponsorship of the AAHOA in its 2024 Spring National Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C.”
Mona has not only built a remarkable career but also uplifted her family and colleagues along the way, positioning herself as a powerful force within the industry.
Mona’s journey began in Dubai, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Law before moving to the U.S. to pursue a Master’s in Law at the University of Houston. Her early years in the U.S. were challenging. Establishing herself without any financial or emotional support in a completely unknown land, she drew strength from her family and their shared commitment to education and success.
“Over the past seven years, I have established myself in the United States. This past year, through relentless determination and hard work, I am blessed and proud to say that I have immigrated my entire family – my father, mother, brother, and sister – from Dubai to America,” Mona mentioned.
Mona’s background in law and real estate, combined with certifications as a paralegal and licensed property tax consultant, equips her with the skills to navigate the complex landscape of business development.
In her leadership role at O’Connor Tax Reduction Experts, she manages a global team of 445 employees across Houston, Colombia, and India, fostering a culture of collaboration and efficiency. Her tenacity has been instrumental in improving the company’s global communication and service delivery.
Mona’s impact on the hospitality industry is remarkable. “In the hospitality industry, I’ve made a tangible impact by helping approximately 7,000 hotels save more than $300 million on property taxes to date within my three years in this role,” she said. These savings have allowed hotels to reinvest in their businesses, provide enhanced services and weather financial challenges.
Her leadership extends beyond numbers as she has used her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion within the industry, particularly highlighting the importance of embracing diverse voices at major conferences and trade shows. Her advocacy has opened doors for under-represented groups and brought a fresh perspective to an industry rooted in tradition. Mona believes that diversity drives innovation, and she has committed herself to ensuring that the hospitality sector reflects the rich, vibrant mosaic of cultures and experiences that define it.
