QUITO, ECUADOR—President Daniel Noboa has appointed Mateo Julián Estrella Durán as the new Minister of Tourism of Ecuador. Estrella Durán brings extensive experience in tourism management, international relations, and sustainable development, highlighting a commitment to enhancing Ecuador’s position as a top global destination. Prior to this, he was an advisor at the Ministry of Tourism playing a pivotal role as a key advisor, driving strategies that significantly boosted Ecuador’s visibility in international markets. In addition, he has also led the Ecuadorian Association of Eco-Tourism and Adventure Travel, advocating eco-friendly practices and community partnerships for more inclusive economic growth. “I am...

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS—The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has announced the appointment of Trinidad and Tobago national Narendra Ramgulam as its new Sustainable Tourism Consultant. Ramgulam brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the position, focusing on advancing sustainable practices across the Caribbean region. As a leading regional tourism development agency, CTO is committed to promoting sustainable tourism that benefits the Caribbean people economically and socially. Ramgulam’s appointment aligns with the CTO’s mission to create a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector in the Caribbean. His expertise in sustainable tourism, coupled with his passion for the region, will be instrumental in driving...

OTTAWA — The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) has named Beth McMahon as its new President and CEO. An award-winning association leader, McMahon brings extensive experience to the role and is poised to lead the HAC into an exciting new chapter of growth and advocacy success. McMahon has been a transformative leader in association management for over twenty years. Most recently, she served as chief executive officers of the Canadian Institute of Planners, growing its membership by more than 40 percent and substantially expanding its position with government and key partners. Prior to that, McMahon held the position of vice-president,...

HOLLYWOOD, FLA.—Seminole Hard Rock Support Services announced the promotion of two senior executives to new roles and expanded responsibilities. Stephanie Piimauna has been named Senior Vice President of People and Inclusion, and is now also responsible for Human Resources, reporting to Tracy Bradford, President, Seminole Hard Rock Support Services. Piimauna remains Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer including oversight of Tribal Career Development, and Global Social Responsibility, reporting to Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming. Meaghan Ryan was elevated to Head of Human Resources for all of Seminole Support Services, reporting to Piimauna. “Stephanie has done an incredible job of developing...

SEA RANCH, CALIF.—The Sea Ranch Lodge announces the formation of its new culinary leadership team, bringing together exceptional talent to elevate the dining experience at the renowned coastal destination. The Lodge welcomes Darren McRonald as Executive Chef, Jay Wyant-King as Director of Food and Beverage, Chloe Tula as Wine Director, and Katrina Coffman as Farm Manager. “We are excited to welcome this talented culinary team to The Sea Ranch Lodge family, each bringing their unique expertise and vision,” says Kristina Jetton, General Manager, The Sea Ranch Lodge. “Together, they will not only enhance our culinary offerings but also strengthen our commitment...

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) announced that Rosanna Maietta has been selected to serve as the association’s next president & CEO, effective Nov. 14. Maietta is a talented executive with a global career marked by success working alongside boards and leading teams to high performance. Over the span of her career, she has achieved exceptional success in public affairs, strategic planning, association management, team building, and leadership. Having previously served as president & CEO of the AHLA Foundation and executive vice president of communications and public relations of AHLA, Maietta brings a deep understanding of AHLA’s mission,...

MIAMI—SH Hotels & Resorts, the renowned hotel brand management company that operates 1 Hotels & Homes, Baccarat Hotels & Residences, and Treehouse Hotels, is pleased to announce the promotion of Abhay Bakaya to Chief Development Officer. Bakaya, a driving force behind the company’s development efforts for several years, steps into this pivotal role to lead an international team in the global expansion of the brand’s portfolio, and spearhead broader strategic planning as the company explores new hotel and branded residential opportunities. “Abhay’s appointment highlights our commitment to strategic growth and brand extension and we are confident that his leadership will...

DES PLAINES, ILL.—Geberit North America announces the appointment of Ronn Jefferson as the West Region Sales and Builder Manager. Jefferson brings 19 years of experience with Geberit, starting as a senior design engineer in new product development and serving as the Geberit Product Manager since 2007. His leadership has been crucial in advancing the company’s category growth of Installation Systems for wall-hung fixtures, bringing concealed toilet tanks, wall-hung toilets, and decorative flush actuators into the mainstream. In his new role, Jefferson will oversee the sales of plumbing fixtures and fittings, manage customer relationships, lead independent sales representative teams, guide Geberit territory...

FORT MYERS, FLA.—Luminary Hotel & Co. announced the appointment of Tyler Morrissey as its new Director of Engineering. In this pivotal role, Morrissey will oversee operations and maintenance at Luminary Hotel & Co., ensuring all facilities meet the highest standards of excellence and safety. Morrissey will also ensure compliance with all Fire Department requirements and maintain up-to-date certifications from all relevant federal, state, and local governing agencies. “Tyler’s deep connection to Southwest Florida and his impressive track record in the engineering field make him an outstanding fit for our team,” said Robert “Bobby” Nokley, General Manager of Luminary Hotel &...

TROY, N.Y.—Audubon International—the environmentally focused nonprofit organization offering members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play—announced that Mark O’Mell has joined the leadership team as Director of Signature Sanctuary Certification. “We are thrilled to add Mark at the helm of our important Signature Sanctuary Certification,” said Audubon International CEO Christine Kane. “He knows the golf course operations and maintenance business inside and out, and literally from the ground up. His expertise and leadership will help ensure the program’s continued growth as we add new members, especially at the elite Platinum level.” Audubon...