From Delta Airlines to Corporate Housing Pioneer
A Journey of Resilience and Excellence: Born in Oklahoma and now a Tampa Bay resident for over 21 years, Dominique “Nika” Cagle’s journey is marked by resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. After serving as an On Board Leader for Delta Airlines during the harrowing events of September 11th, Dominique faced an uncertain future following her furlough. Instead of pursuing an MBA, she chose to channel her energy into starting Nika Corporate Housing, driven by a commitment to financial independence and a fresh start in Tampa with her husband, Scott.
Setting a New Standard in Corporate Housing
Nika Corporate Housing began with a vision to provide superior housing for service members. What started with a single client, a US Marine, quickly evolved into a mission to offer high-quality, fully furnished accommodations. Utilizing her proprietary system, Casa Genesis, Dominique has revolutionized the industry, ensuring top-tier housing solutions that cater to government needs, especially in an era where cyber threats necessitate trusted and secure partnerships.
Adapting to an Ever-Changing Industry
With over two decades in the industry, Dominique has witnessed significant changes, particularly with the advent of technology. Despite these shifts, the core of her business remains rooted in deep, established relationships with relocation companies, the government, and Fortune 500 corporations. These entities continue to value and trust Nika Corporate Housing for its proven track record and commitment to excellence.
Overcoming Challenges as a Woman-Owned Business
As a certified Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), Dominique has faced unique challenges, particularly in securing bank loans compared to her male counterparts. Despite these hurdles, she has navigated cash flow issues and maintained her company’s ability to perform large contracts with rigorous payment terms. Her resilience and determination have ensured that Nika Corporate Housing remains a formidable player in the industry.
Empowering Women Through Leadership and Advocacy
Dominique’s involvement in organizations like the Woman’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the Women Presidents Organization (WPO) has profoundly influenced her leadership style. These organizations provide invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and support systems that help women-owned businesses thrive. Dominique emphasizes the importance of these networks in growing and scaling her business, highlighting their role in transforming daily operational challenges into strategic growth opportunities.
Making a Difference in Times of Crisis
One of the most rewarding aspects of Dominique’s work is helping clients during natural disasters, particularly in hurricane-prone Florida. Nika Corporate Housing plays a crucial role in providing safe, comfortable accommodations for those displaced by hurricanes, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their lives. This commitment to community and client welfare underscores the company’s mission and values.
Celebrating Excellence and Achievements
The numerous awards and recognitions Nika Corporate Housing has received, including the CHPA Tower of Excellence Company of the Year and the Tampa Bay Business and Wealth Magazine’s Apogee Award, validate the company’s impact and mission. These accolades reflect the hard work and dedication of Dominique and her team, reinforcing their role as change-makers and housing advocates in the community.
Ensuring Consistency and Quality Worldwide
To maintain high standards across various locations, Nika Corporate Housing relies on local experts and long-term certified partners. These relationships, built over two decades, ensure that clients receive consistent, high-quality service regardless of location. This network of trusted partners is crucial in delivering on the company’s promise of excellence.
Shaping the Relocation Industry
As a former board member of the Southeastern Regional Relocation Council (SRRC), Dominique has brought a unique perspective to the relocation industry. Her experience as an owner, sponsor, and attendee has contributed to shaping policies and practices that better serve clients and industry stakeholders.
Cultivating a Culture of Integrity, Honesty, and Hard Work
At Nika Corporate Housing, the values of integrity, honesty, and hard work are woven into the company culture. Dominique fosters these principles through community engagement, employee recognition programs, and generous benefits such as paid birthdays off. This approach not only boosts morale but also ensures that her team remains dedicated to upholding the company’s high standards.
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Service
Dominique’s forward-thinking approach is evident in her use of Casa Genesis, a cloud-based SAAS business that she white labels for the corporate housing industry. This proprietary software streamlines operations, ensuring that every unit meets the highest standards of quality and comfort. By integrating third-party inspection checklists into their system, Nika Corporate Housing maintains rigorous control over the condition and readiness of their properties. This meticulous attention to detail helps preempt and swiftly address any issues, ensuring a seamless experience for clients.
Balancing Multiple Ventures
In addition to Nika Corporate Housing, Dominique manages two other companies: Skye Blue Media LLC, which handles data management through Casa Genesis, and Body Works Fitness. Her fitness company reflects another dimension of her expertise and passion. As an international fitness model, professional athlete with the WBFF Federation, and author of “Perfect Body After Baby,” Dominique’s multifaceted career showcases her versatility and drive. Balancing these ventures, along with raising five children, underscores her extraordinary time management skills and dedication.
Family and Personal Life
Despite her busy professional life, Dominique prioritizes her family. She and her husband Scott, a US Air Force veteran, have built a life in Tampa with their five children: Daxton, Levi, Mia, Elizabeth, and Jessica. The family’s pets, including a dog named Broadie, a cat named Hercules, and a turtle named
Houston, add to the lively household. Dominique’s ability to juggle her professional responsibilities with her personal life is a testament to her organizational skills and resilience.
Future Prospects and Vision
Looking ahead, Dominique envisions continued growth and innovation for Nika Corporate Housing. She remains committed to leveraging technology to enhance service delivery and expand the company’s global footprint. With a strong foundation built on trust, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Dominique is well-positioned to navigate future industry challenges and opportunities.
Advocacy and Community Involvement
Dominique’s commitment to her community extends beyond her business ventures. She actively participates in local initiatives and supports causes that align with her values. This includes giving back through community service and fostering a culture of philanthropy within her company. By prioritizing social responsibility, Dominique ensures that Nika Corporate Housing contributes positively to the broader community.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
For aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women looking to make their mark in male-dominated industries, Dominique offers valuable advice. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and leveraging available resources such as professional networks and certifications. Dominique’s own journey illustrates the power of determination and the impact of strategic networking and education in achieving business success.
A Legacy of Excellence
Dominique “Nika” Cagle’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to quality. Through Nika Corporate Housing, she has not only set new standards in the corporate housing industry but also inspired countless women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one can have through dedication, hard work, and a clear vision for the future.
In conclusion, Dominique Cagle’s story is a remarkable example of how adversity can be transformed into opportunity. Her leadership at Nika Corporate Housing and her contributions to the industry exemplify excellence and resilience. As she continues to lead and innovate, Dominique remains a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.
