Published on December 14, 2025
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) recently unveiled its much-anticipated list of the 2025 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality. This annual recognition highlights exceptional leaders who are driving innovation in sales, marketing, revenue optimization, and distribution within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. It honors those demonstrating extraordinary leadership, creativity, and a tangible impact on the industry.
On February 18, 2026, these honorees will be celebrated during a special ceremony preceding the esteemed HSMAI Adrian Awards at the New York Marriott Marquis. The 2025 awardees embody excellence, showcasing innovative strategies and the creativity that propels the hospitality sector onward, especially in a time characterized by rapid technological advancement and evolving consumer behaviors.
Celebrating Leadership and Innovation in Hospitality
The Top 25 Extraordinary Minds awards are designed to celebrate individuals who consistently push industry boundaries. HSMAI selects its honorees based on leadership skills, innovative contributions, and measurable achievements over the preceding 18 months. The 2025 class truly embodies the vibrant essence of the hospitality industry, illuminating individuals that have reshaped commercial strategies, integrated groundbreaking digital solutions, and promoted a culture rich in innovation.
Brian Hicks, President and CEO of HSMAI, emphasized the pivotal role these honorees play in molding the future of hospitality. Their inspiring success stories illustrate the sector’s capacity to adapt and thrive despite challenges, underscoring the necessity of nurturing talent within sales, marketing, and revenue optimization for ongoing success.
The 2025 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality
This year’s outstanding honorees come from various companies, representing a wide array of facets in the hospitality and tourism fields. Among the list of game-changers are:
- Samir Bhatnagar, AVP of Commercial Strategy at Ashford
- Kelly Bridwell, Director of Brand Strategy at Peregrine Hospitality
- Timothy Bush, Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Lake Charles
- C.A. Clark, Vice President of AI at Miles Partnership
- Christina Davis, SVP of Product & Operations at Tambourine
- Eric Ettlin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Aimbridge Hospitality
- Dan Fernandez, Vice President of Digital Marketing & Strategy at Concord Hospitality
- Chris Hardy, Vice President of Commercial Strategy at Parks Hospitality Group
- Noreen Henry, Chief Revenue Officer at Hospitality Solutions
- Nick Horgan, Chief Commercial Officer at Amaze Insights
These exceptional leaders represent the future of hospitality leadership, demonstrating how innovation and strategic excellence propel the global tourism and hospitality industries. The diversity of the honorees—from those leading AI-driven initiatives to others spearheading digital marketing transformations—showcases the broad influence effective leadership can have within the sector.
Transforming Hospitality Through Innovation
At the heart of these honorees’ remarkable achievements is innovation. Whether through revolutionary digital marketing strategies or the integration of advanced AI technologies for smarter revenue management, these professionals are introducing cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency and elevate guest experiences. Their foresight in recognizing market trends, utilizing data insights, and executing agile strategies has been crucial in adapting to the dynamic needs of the hospitality landscape.
The Future of Hospitality Leadership
The 2025 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds not only recognize top-tier talent but also highlight individuals who have made significant contributions to the sector’s advancement. By propelling innovation and embracing transformative technologies, these leaders are enhancing business outcomes while enriching travel experiences globally. In an era of digital transformation, the impact of these honorees will be integral in shaping the future of hospitality.
During the HSMAI Adrian Awards, the accomplishments of this year’s recognized leaders will be on full display as the broader hospitality community comes together to honor excellence and innovation. Their success stories will illustrate the vital importance of cultivating a culture of creativity and adaptability across the industry.
Honouring Excellence in Hospitality Leadership
The announcement of the 2025 Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality is a notable moment for recognizing the talent, innovation, and leadership that drives the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors. These professionals have showcased exceptional vision and strategic execution, and their initiatives will continue to influence how the industry evolves in response to modern challenges. As the global hospitality sector progresses, these leaders will undoubtedly play a crucial role in ensuring its adaptability and relevance to both business and traveler demands.
