Antigua and Barbuda, November 6, 2024 – The Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives (CSHAE) is pleased to announce that Patrice Simon has been appointed as its new President. Mrs. Simon, who currently serves as the Executive Director of the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), will, through her work with ABHTA, lead CSHAE in its mission to foster networking, information-sharing, and professional development among the region’s National Hotel and Tourism Association Executives.

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 across 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.

Reflecting on this new appointment, Patrice Simon stated, “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.”

As Mrs. Simon leads CSHAE forward, she will be supported by incoming Vice President Arlene Friday, CEO of the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association. Their first sitting together under Mrs. Simon’s presidency will take place at the CHTA CHIEF (Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum) conference, scheduled to be held in Miami from May 18–20, 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome Patrice Simon’s leadership as President of the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA). “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.”

Sanovnik Destang, President of CHTA, also recognized Mrs. 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 Mrs. 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.