The Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives (CSHAE) has appointed Patrice Simon as its new President.
Simon, who currently serves as the Executive Director of the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) will lead the CSHAE in its mission to foster networking, information-sharing and professional development among the region’s National Hotel and Tourism Association Executives, a release said.
Founded by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), CSHAE brings together executives from the 32 National Hotel and Tourism Associations that form CHTA’s core membership in the Caribbean. These associations are CHTA’s direct link to the hotels and tourism industries of each Caribbean island, allowing for a dynamic exchange of information, strategies, and industry insights. Through CSHAE, Association Executives share best practices and develop solutions that address the unique needs of the Caribbean’s tourism sector, bolstering the resilience and growth of the region’s hospitality industry.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to represent the ABHTA and Antigua and Barbuda in this important capacity as President of the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives. Leading this society of my peers across the Caribbean, who are at the forefront of supporting our local hotel and tourism associations, is both a privilege and a tremendous responsibility,” Simon said.
As she leads CSHAE forward, she will be supported by incoming Vice President Arlene Friday, the CEO of the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association. Their first sitting together under Simon’s presidency will take place at the CHTA Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) conference, scheduled for Miami from November 18–20.
“We are thrilled to welcome Patrice Simon’s leadership as President of the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives,” said the CEO of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, Vanessa Ledesma. “Patrice has consistently championed people development, bringing a profound commitment to nurturing talent and advancing our industry’s greatest resource – its people. Her experience and dedication will be invaluable to CSHAE as we continue to empower association executives across the Caribbean.”
President of CHTA Sanovnik Destang also recognized Simon’s achievements and her dedication to the Caribbean hospitality industry.
“At the heart of our advocacy and impact in the Caribbean hospitality and tourism industry are the dedicated association executives who work tirelessly to uplift our region. From spearheading initiatives like the ‘Unveiling Hospitality Professionals’ series, which earned a 2024 CHIEF Award for People Development and Support, Patrice Simon exemplifies commitment to growth and innovation. We are confident that under her leadership, CSHAE will continue to strengthen and support national hotel associations, amplifying tourism’s positive impact for all.”
With Simon’s leadership, CSHAE is set to continue its impactful work in advancing economic growth, elevating professional standards, and fostering innovation within the Caribbean’s hospitality industry, the release said.
