Last updated: 9:05 AM ET, Tue October 28, 2025
Corey Lassman, Villas of Distinction (Photo Credit: Corey Lassman)
Bio
Based in Chicago, Corey Lassman is a fourth generation travel professional with more than six years in the industry. His career began in advertising research, advising global brands like Procter & Gamble and Whirlpool, before transitioning into sales. After becoming a top performer at Apple Leisure Group Vacations, he joined Villas of Distinction as National Sales Manager to lead national consortia partnerships.
At ALG Vacations, he quickly emerged as a top-tier business development manager—consistently ranking among the highest in percentage and revenue growth within his territory. He was honored to be named Top Sales Rep (Over $2M) by MAST Travel Network in his second year. Beyond sales, he played a key role in connecting ALG’s sales and marketing teams, helping to shape influencer initiatives that elevated the brand. His collaborative mindset and fresh ideas earned him a spot as an advisory member for ALG’s inaugural Kindness Conference, bringing together rising industry leaders, including fellow 40 Under 40 peers—to shape the future of travel culture.
After joining Villas of Distinction in 2023 as Director of National Accounts, he immediately began driving growth in key markets, achieving more than 30% year-over-year growth in his first year. Under his leadership, the brand has earned back-to-back honors as Virtuoso’s Top Training Partner and achieved top sales performance in Virtuoso Canada. He also helped Villas of Distinction gain recognition as TravelPulse Canada Readers’ Choice for top Villa Rental Company and climb Travel + Leisure’s Best Villa Companies ranking from fifth in 2024 to third globally in 2025.
Corey is 32 years old.
"This is truly an honor to be recognized as one of TravelPulse's 40 under 40. In the best industry in the world, to be included among this outstanding group is nothing short of incredible," said Corey. "What makes this special is it's not just about the work I've done or what I've achieved - this honor reflects the immense care and countless hours my loved ones, my mentors, and my industry colleagues have poured into helping me become who I am today. It's a reminder that human-to-human connection, understanding, and collaboration are at the core of our mutual successes. As someone fortunate to have been raised in this industry and the fourth generation to work in it, it's incredibly meaningful to be recognized as a leader and contributor, especially at this early stage in my career. It's both an affirmation of the values I lead with and a reminder that there's still so much more to do. This honor marks the start of a new chapter - and where rising tides lift all ships, I'll continue striving to be the tide."
Industry References
"I am pleased to enthusiastically recommend Corey Lassman for the 2025 TravelPulse 40 Under 40,” said Jamie Cash, COO, Luxury Travel Holdings/Villas of Distinction. “In his time with Villas of Distinction as our Director of National Accounts, Corey has made an impressive name for himself, both within our company and the industry at large.
“The luxury villa business is one in which success comes from the combination of personal relationships and deep product knowledge. Corey has consistently demonstrated this ability, quickly establishing himself as a key force in our relationships with Signature Travel Network, Virtuoso, Fora, and many other independent and affiliated agencies. Bringing fresh ideas and a genuine sense of collaboration, Corey supports his accounts far beyond the scope of a traditional Business Development or National Sales role. He’s been instrumental in communicating the why of a villa experience to seasoned luxury advisors who have traditionally booked resorts.
What I value most about Corey is his approach to partnership. He doesn’t start by selling Villas of Distinction—instead, he asks, ‘What’s important to you, and how can I help you with that?’ It’s not something from the page of a book on salesmanship; it’s truly the way he approaches relationships. This approach isn’t just unique, it’s effective—Villas of Distinction saw a significant increase in travel agency business in his first 12 months, and that pace of growth has continued.
“There’s a tendency in our industry to look at the bright new shiny object ('Blockchain will revolutionize travel', 'AI will change everything'). These things are, undoubtedly, occasionally true. What is everlastingly true, however, is that, especially in leisure travel, we are in the business of helping guests expand their experience, deepen existing relationships, and develop new ones—that’s the power of travel, of hospitality. Corey takes that central truth to heart, empowering travel advisors to strengthen their client connections by providing them with remarkable experiences. That partnership, that commitment to the central promise of travel, is why I believe Corey deserves inclusion in your 40 Under 40 this year,” finished Cash.
“Having worked closely with Corey for many years, I can attest that he possesses the rare combination of professional poise, an unwavering ‘can-do’ attitude, and a genuine passion for building lasting relationships that make him an exceptional candidate for this recognition,” said Amanda Klimak, President & Co-Owner, Largay Travel. “Corey's calm, professional demeanor and quick wit are perhaps his most defining qualities.
“In an industry that can be fast-paced and challenging, he remains a steady and reliable partner. No matter the complexity of the request or the urgency of the situation, he approaches every conversation with a level-headedness that instills confidence and trust. This calm professionalism is consistently paired with an infectious positive attitude. Corey never sees a problem, only a solution waiting to be found. This proactive and positive mindset has been invaluable to our team, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and his dedication to his partners. Beyond his impressive composure and positive attitude, Corey has proven to be a master of relationship building.
“He has formed meaningful connections with our team of over 120 plus advisors during our annual Connect Conference and on our top producers trip, which are the bedrock of our success. Corey has not only met but exceeded expectations in this regard. He has taken the time to truly connect with each of our advisors, understanding their businesses and cultivating relationships that go far beyond our transactional level. His ability to foster these deep, meaningful partnerships has made him a trusted resource and a valued member of our extended professional family. In summary, Corey Lassman embodies the very best of what this industry has to offer and what we hope for our future…”
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