The experiences we’ve navigated since this global pandemic began have affected each one of us—in different ways and similar ways. Here is the story of Kayla Cook, owner and lead planner of Kayla Cook events, on how she navigated the stress of the pandemic.

Gary Murakami brings a passion for the hospitality industry—and amplifying the voices of the underrepresented in it—to his new sales and industry relations position with Teneo Hospitality Group.

Matthew Maddox, CEO of Wynn Resorts, thinks deep about what it means to be a leader, how Wynn Resorts navigated the pandemic, and why face-to-face meetings will only emerge stronger once COVID-19 is in the rear-view mirror.

After a thorough search, ASAE named Association Forum CEO Michelle Mason as its next leader, effective September 1.

Meetings industry fixture Cleo Battle, currently chief operating officer for Louisville Tourism, is about to attain the highest notch in the DMO career ladder when he takes on the mantle of president and CEO of the organization July 1. But his leadership role goes far beyond destination marketing. 

Greg DeShields is a veteran advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in the tourism and meetings industries, and now brings that wealth of knowledge to his role as executive director of Tourism Diversity Matters, a new initiative made up of MICE industry leaders.

With 30 years of tourism and hospitality experience, Larry Sieg takes the top slot at Meet AC following Jim Wood’s departure at the end of 2019. 

Edward Harris, chief marketing officer of the Philadelphia area’s Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board (VFTCB), has left the tourism promotion organization to accept the job of president and CEO of Discover Lancaster, located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. 
 

Historically, women have been left behind in the male-dominated culinary industry—but no longer, especially in Las Vegas, whose female culinary leaders bring serious dimension to menus. Read about the stories behind their success and options for group dining.

Rosen Shingle Creek Executive Chef Jorge Oliveira relishes the independence working for Orlando independent hotel icon Harris Rosen affords, and also shares his thoughts on what hotel F&B may be like following the COVID-19 shut down. Read more.