This time next week, the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Middle East & Africa will kick off its 7th Annual Commercial Strategy Conference. Taking place on 26 and 27 November 2024 at the Conrad Dubai, the action-packed program will bring together the region’s hospitality sales, marketing and revenue management community for unmatched industry insights, networking, and awards.
Newly appointed President and CEO of HSMAI, Brian Hicks, will be joining Mona Faraj, President of HSMAI Middle East & Africa, and Alex Lee, Chief Commercial Officer of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts for the opening address at 9:00am on the first day of the conference.This will be Brian Hicks’ first international trip since his appointment last month.
Hicks, a distinguished hospitality leader with more than 30 years of international experience, steps into this role as only the fifth CEO in HSMAI’s nearly 100-year history, marking a new chapter in the organization’s legacy of leadership. His proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and leadership across major hotel brands and regions positions him well to continue building upon the foundation laid by the late Bob Gilbert, who served as President and CEO for 30 years.
Hicks’ appointment comes at a pivotal time for HSMAI as the organization continues to expand its global presence and deepen its impact on the hospitality industry’s commercial disciplines. With extensive experience spanning operations, commercial strategy, and revenue management, Hicks’ leadership will further strengthen HSMAI’s commitment to advancing the sales, marketing, and revenue management disciplines across the industry. He assumes leadership of the HSMAI Americas, Foundation and Global entities.
"I look forward to connecting, sharing best practices, and more importantly just networking with the amazing colleagues and industry friends that I have gotten to know over the years,” said Brian Hicks. “As I step into my new role, I’m both humbled and inspired by the strong foundation Bob Gilbert established. Together, we share a deep passion for this industry, and I look forward to continuing the mission of supporting our members and making a lasting impact on their careers."
Mona Faraj, Managing Director, HSMAI Middle East& Africa, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Brian to Dubai for his first international trip as HSMAI’s new President and CEO, highlighting the global significance of our event and region. This year, we celebrate both the inspiring legacy of the late Bob Gilbert and the exciting future ahead under Brian’s leadership"
With a stellar line up of expert speakers, the conference presents insights into some of the industry’s most pressing issues and hottest topics such as AI, technology and innovation as well as sustainability, revenue management, F&B, and hotel profitability. This year’s event also has a timely focus on talent attraction, retention and loyalty.
Registrations are open HERE. Full details of the 2024 Commercial Strategy Conference Middle East are available HERE.