Brain Hicks, President and CEO, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI)
As we begin 2025, I am filled with optimism and anticipation as I find my stride as the President and CEO of HSMAI. The year ahead promises to be one of change but also growth. I have no doubt the organization will thrive in the coming years as we both honor and embrace the amazing legacy and strategic direction that Bob Gilbert established. The year will be filled with outstanding celebrations, networking, and education opportunities.
I’d love to see you at the Adrians Award Celebration on February 18th at the Marriott Marquis, New York City. It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognize outstanding work in the industry and network with peers. The competition has always been a showcase and benchmark of best practices in hotel and travel-related marketing and media. We also recognize career achievement and the top 25 extraordinary minds awards.
Later in the year we will build on the success of last year’s Commercial Strategy Conference, where we sold out. We fully expect to exceed last year’s attendance at the 2025 HSMAI Commercial Strategy Conference June 17th-18th in Indianapolis. It would be wise to save your spot early before we reach capacity. Keynote speakers and breakout sessions will cover leadership, sales, marketing, and revenue optimization strategies and tactics, and business planning.
In the second half of the year, we will bring you the Curate Executive Insight Forum and Sales Leader Forum, both in Chicago, November 13th & 14th.
Right now, I am attending the Commercial Strategy Conference at HSMAI Europe. Explore similar exciting events happening around the globe throughout the HSMAI regions. There are opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate with HSMAI no matter where you are!
Education and certification will continue to be a priority in 2025. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, staying current with the latest skills and knowledge is crucial. I personally am excited to deepen my knowledge through the HSMAI Foundation’s upcoming research. First there is the specially commissioned white paper on AI and talent. And then in quarter two, the annual publication on the State of Talent.
The economic outlook for 2025 is promising, with hospitality leaders expressing strong confidence in both national and regional economies. I have similar confidence in HSMAI’s year ahead. Our success wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you for your dedication and support, it makes HSMAI the vibrant community it is.
Cheers to a prosperous 2025!