Latest news with #RosannaMaietta
Forbes
03-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Two Influential Women Hospitality Leaders Talk Shop
Women make up the majority of the hospitality industry. getty Women have played a vital, albeit often overlooked, role in the hospitality industry since its early days. Initially, they were primarily employed in roles like innkeepers, serving food and making beds. Throughout history, they have gradually expanded their roles, working in various aspects of the industry, including management and leadership. While women still face some challenges in reaching top leadership positions, known as C-suite levels, their contributions have been significant in shaping the industry. Two female leaders in the industry recently offered their opinions concerning the outlook for women in hospitality: Rosanna Maietta brings a wealth of experience to the industry. AHLA 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 knowledge of AHLA's mission, operations, financials, and people, and has solid relationships with AHLA's key stakeholder groups, including members of the AHLA board and Foundation board of trustees. Here's what I love about our industry—and what makes it so different from so many others—you don't necessarily need a formal four-year degree to build an incredible career. What you DO need is training, and you need to be intentional about it. Hospitality is exactly what it sounds like—it's about people and service. Those skills can be learned, and some of the best leaders I know started in entry-level positions and worked their way up. Whether or not you have a hospitality degree, you need to be deliberate about your development and advocate for yourself. Seek out mentorship. Take advantage of training programs—whether that's through your company, industry associations like AHLA, or programs like what we offer through the AHLA Foundation. The ForWard initiative, for example, is an incredible platform for networking, leadership development, mentorship, and supporting the growth of women leaders in our industry. If you work hard and are passionate about service, there's a path for you. And our job is to make sure women see those paths and feel supported in pursuing them. What are the skills required for the hospitality industry? Hospitality is an industry of people and service. Fundamentally, it's about human connection and taking care of people. When we create environments where our teams feel valued and empowered, that's when we deliver truly exceptional experiences for our guests. And while people skills are the most critical component of the job, there's much more too it. You need to be a problem solver. Great hospitality professionals don't just fix problems; they anticipate them and create systems to prevent them. Business acumen is critical, especially as you move into leadership roles. You need to understand revenue, labor costs, and think strategically about market positioning and operational efficiency. Our industry is being transformed by technology—you need to be increasingly tech-savvy. From AI-powered customer service advancements to sophisticated property management systems, you need to understand how technology can enhance the guest experience and improve operations. It's one of the coolest and most innovative industries you can join, with hundreds of career pathways. It's not just a job, it's a lifelong career and AHLA and the AHLA Foundation are here to help assist people in that journey. Cooper has more than 25 years of experience in the hotel industry. Atrium Hospitality Anneliesse Cooper, Chief Human Resources Officer, Atrium Hospitality With more than 25 years of experience in the hotel industry, Cooper focuses on Atrium Hospitality's core values and company culture as she partners with the company's leadership team to drive talent strategies that support the successful execution of organizational objectives. She joined Atrium Hospitality in April 2022 as Senior Vice President, Human Resources. She advanced to Chief Human Resources Officer in December of that year. Cooper promotes a culture of leadership excellence that attracts and develops best-in-class talent, therefore facilitating both individual as well as organizational growth. Describe the goals and progress of the WomenRISE Program. With the kickoff of Atrium Hospitality's WomenRISE Program in 2024, our company focused on the development of women General Managers by providing mentorship, resources and growth opportunities to support them in successfully navigating their career journeys. Consensus among WomenRISE class participants, instructors and mentors is that the investment in time and resources for the nine-month program was well worth it. Feedback from program graduates revealed improved preparedness and self-confidence for taking the next steps to achieve their career goals. What more can be done to even the playing field for women hoping to advance to the C-suite level? While leadership training programs, mentorship and advocacy are becoming more popular with hospitality companies for leveling the playing field for women, potential candidates' growth mindset is also a factor that can influence their advancement to management and the C-suite level. Mentors and advocates can encourage hospitality professionals to go for next-level opportunities, but candidates must decide for themselves when to take the leap to broaden their presence and responsibilities within an organization. What education and training should women consider who are trying to advance within the hospitality industry? When it comes to education in the hospitality industry, women are winning in this space. In fact, women make up about 70% of hospitality graduates today. Additionally, most hospitality managers overall are women. The majority of hospitality C-suite level leaders started in hourly roles in the industry, and most worked in several different departments or functions of the business throughout their careers. While today's emerging leaders will likely not have to travel the same career paths as those who went before them, there are still core lessons they can take away from those examples. Emerging leaders need to find a hotel department or role that they're passionate about, where they can build their skills and really shine; learn from their colleagues; seek guidance from knowledgeable mentors; and when presented with an opportunity to broaden their exposure to other areas of hotel operations, take it. In any business, performance and results are table stakes, but what will differentiate emerging leaders is intentionally cultivating their own leadership styles that demonstrate a willingness to be a lifelong learner, the desire to connect with people authentically, and the ability to inspire others to action. Throughout my 25-year hospitality career journey, I've had many mentors that helped me along the way and great bosses that supported my growth by challenging me and giving me the autonomy to make decisions. I'm grateful for their support, which bolstered my own confidence to make personal choices to go for next-level opportunities, including the C-suite level. 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Hospitality Net
23-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
AHLA Statement on the U.S. House-Passed Reconciliation Package
WASHINGTON - The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the leading voice representing all segments of the hotel industry, today issued the following statement from AHLA President & CEO Rosanna Maietta following the inclusion of key tax provisions critical to the hospitality industry in the U.S. House-passed Budget Reconciliation package: This is a win for Main Street businesses. We commend lawmakers for including critical tax provisions in the budget reconciliation bill that will prevent a tax increase on American workers and the small businesses that are the backbone of America's hotel and lodging industry. This is a critical step to stave off the expiration of important tax provisions that will provide our members, the majority of whom are small business owners, the level of certainty they need to effectively operate their businesses. We urge the U.S. Senate to swiftly pass this legislation and send it to President Trump's desk. Additional Background AHLA supports the House's inclusion of permanency for Small Business Deduction (Section 199A) and applauds the increase of the Qualified Business Income deduction. The majority of hotel owners are bona fide small business owners who license the name and standards from nationally recognized hotel brand companies. These are the entrepreneurs who own real estate, acquire capital, employ workers and undertake financial risk. The expiration of the small business deduction would significantly increase their taxes – inhibiting their ability to reinvest back in their employees and businesses. The majority of hotel owners are bona fide small business owners who license the name and standards from nationally recognized hotel brand companies. These are the entrepreneurs who own real estate, acquire capital, employ workers and undertake financial risk. The expiration of the small business deduction would significantly increase their taxes – inhibiting their ability to reinvest back in their employees and businesses. AHLA supports the House's preservation of the Like-Kind Exchange (Section 1031). Maintaining Internal Revenue Code Section 1031, allowing for like-kind exchanges, as it currently exists, is critical. Any limits, caps or efforts to repeal the current law would significantly reduce new investments and inhibit job creation. This provision allows real estate owners to defer capital gains taxes if the proceeds are employed to purchase another property and, in the process, create new jobs, improve their community and promote economic activity. Maintaining Internal Revenue Code Section 1031, allowing for like-kind exchanges, as it currently exists, is critical. Any limits, caps or efforts to repeal the current law would significantly reduce new investments and inhibit job creation. This provision allows real estate owners to defer capital gains taxes if the proceeds are employed to purchase another property and, in the process, create new jobs, improve their community and promote economic activity. AHLA welcomes the House's extension of bonus depreciation at 100% for almost 5 years. Bonus depreciation incentivizes hotel industry members to make capital improvements that support jobs across a myriad of sectors, enhance existing properties and draw in new guests with modern updates. About the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America, representing more than 30,000 members from all segments of the industry nationwide – including iconic global brands, 80% of all franchised hotels, and the 16 largest hotel companies in the U.S. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA focuses on strategic advocacy, communications support, and workforce development programs to move the industry forward. Learn more at Rosanna Maietta AH&LA View source
Hospitality Net
19-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Hoteliers Descend on Capitol Hill for Critical Industry Discussions
This week, members of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) – the leading voice of the U.S. hotel industry – traveled from across the country to meet with congressional leaders and discuss pressing legislative priorities vital for the hospitality sector. During the ongoing Budget Reconciliation and tax negotiations, more than 250 AHLA members held meetings with lawmakers across the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. AHLA members flooded Congressional offices this week to share their on-the-ground insights and advocate for legislation to bolster the hotel industry. Over the course of our meetings across the House and Senate, we successfully conveyed the implications of tax, trade, and labor policies lawmakers are considering. It's clear that a strong tourism sector is on the radar of both Congress and the Administration. Rosanna Maietta, AHLA President & CEO AHLA members shared key concerns and significant challenges facing the U.S. hospitality industry, including the implications of tax and trade policies on hotel operating costs and travel demand. Legislative priorities critical to alleviating these pressures and protecting America's small business hoteliers, jobs, and economic growth include several tax provisions in the House Ways & Means Committee's tax portion of the Budget Reconciliation bill. These include making the Small Business Tax Deduction permanent, extending Bonus Depreciation, preserving the Like-Kind Exchange, reinstating Expanded Business Interest Deductibility, launching a second round of Opportunity Zones, and 'No Tax on Tips' to help thousands of hotel employees keep more of their hard-earned income. AHLA members also discussed measures to expand and upskill the hospitality workforce, such as adjusting the H-2B visa program cap and protecting the franchise model, which supports over half of all U.S. hotels and 2.8 million jobs. During the 'fly-in,' several policymakers received AHLA's 'Spirit of Hospitality Award' for their efforts to advance the travel and tourism industry: Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), and National Labor Relations Board Chair Marvin Kaplan There's no state that appreciates the hotel industry as much as Florid. The economic impact of this industry cannot be overstated. Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL) It was an honor to be presented the Spirit of Hospitality Award by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating tourism across the country so people can see the greatness and beauty of America. We must work together to roll back onerous regulations that create uncertainty for the industry, such as the burdensome joint employer rule, which threatens job creation and limits entrepreneurship. We must also strengthen workforce development efforts to fill the demand for skilled individuals in industries like the travel and tourism industry. By addressing these challenges, we can ensure that the travel and tourism industry can continue to grow and thrive. Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Chairman of the House Education & Workforce Committee Additional information on the hotel industry's policy priorities can be found in AHLA's 2025 Policy Guide. About the AHLA Foundation AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, works to support the hotel and lodging industry's greatest asset – our people. By connecting employees, employers, and their communities, we seek to continuously nurture a culture of professional growth and belonging. When the people who work in our industry thrive, the industry thrives along with them. The Foundation is funded by grants and charitable contributions from generous individuals and organizations who want to support individuals seeking opportunities to thrive in the hotel and lodging industry. Learn more at View source
Travel Daily News
19-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
AHLA members meet Congress about hotel industry priorities
AHLA members discussed key tax and workforce provisions to protect small businesses and promote industry growth. WASHINGTON – Last week, members of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) – the leading voice of the U.S. hotel industry – traveled from across the country to meet with congressional leaders and discuss pressing legislative priorities vital for the hospitality sector. During the ongoing Budget Reconciliation and tax negotiations, more than 250 AHLA members held meetings with lawmakers across the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. 'AHLA members flooded Congressional offices this week to share their on-the-ground insights and advocate for legislation to bolster the hotel industry,' said Rosanna Maietta, AHLA President & CEO. 'Over the course of our meetings across the House and Senate, we successfully conveyed the implications of tax, trade, and labor policies lawmakers are considering. It's clear that a strong tourism sector is on the radar of both Congress and the Administration.' AHLA members shared key concerns and significant challenges facing the U.S. hospitality industry, including the implications of tax and trade policies on hotel operating costs and travel demand. Legislative priorities critical to alleviating these pressures and protecting America's small business hoteliers, jobs, and economic growth include several tax provisions in the House Ways & Means Committee's tax portion of the Budget Reconciliation bill. These include making the Small Business Tax Deduction permanent, extending Bonus Depreciation, preserving the Like-Kind Exchange, reinstating Expanded Business Interest Deductibility, launching a second round of Opportunity Zones, and 'No Tax on Tips' to help thousands of hotel employees keep more of their hard-earned income. AHLA members also discussed measures to expand and upskill the hospitality workforce, such as adjusting the H-2B visa program cap and protecting the franchise model, which supports over half of all U.S. hotels and 2.8 million jobs. During the 'fly-in,' several policymakers received AHLA's 'Spirit of Hospitality Award' for their efforts to advance the travel and tourism industry: Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), and National Labor Relations Board Chair Marvin Kaplan 'There's no state that appreciates the hotel industry as much as Florida,' said Senator Ashley Moody (R-FL). 'The economic impact of this industry cannot be overstated.' 'It was an honor to be presented the Spirit of Hospitality Award by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating tourism across the country so people can see the greatness and beauty of America,' said Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Chairman of the House Education & Workforce Committee. 'We must work together to roll back onerous regulations that create uncertainty for the industry, such as the burdensome joint employer rule, which threatens job creation and limits entrepreneurship. We must also strengthen workforce development efforts to fill the demand for skilled individuals in industries like the travel and tourism industry. By addressing these challenges, we can ensure that the travel and tourism industry can continue to grow and thrive.'
Travel Daily News
12-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Power takes the stage in Atlanta at ForWard Conference 2025
ForWard 2025 gathered 1,000 professionals in Atlanta to empower women in hospitality through leadership tools, bold dialogue, and industry networking. ATLANTA, GA – The power of women in the hotel and lodging industry was on full display as the AHLA Foundation's flagship ForWard Conference made its Atlanta debut this week, bringing nearly 1000 hospitality professionals to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. With a theme centered on recognizing, accessing, and amplifying power, the two-day event delivered bold conversations, practical leadership tools, and high-impact programming – all designed to elevate women in hospitality. Featuring top industry executives and immersive experiences, ForWard 2025 marked a continued investment in building a more inclusive and dynamic future for the hotel and lodging industry. While women represent the majority of the hospitality workforce, that majority isn't reflected in leadership positions. The ForWard initiative, which extends well beyond this annual conference, continues to address this imbalance through targeted professional development and networking opportunities. 'Our industry thrives on connection,' said Kevin Carey, President & CEO of the AHLA Foundation. 'By bringing ForWard to Atlanta, we placed this important dialogue in the heart of a major hospitality hub, allowing us to engage with a broader audience and drive meaningful change.' 'Forward has become a force in this industry, bringing women and men together to champion the next generation of leaders,' noted Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of AHLA. 'There is power in this movement. I'm thrilled to see how our industry has embraced this conference and is meaningfully showing up for women in our industry.' The conference featured executive speakers from across the industry, and select speakers from adjacent industries, including Jennifer Hyman, CEO & Co-Founder of Rent The Runway; Lamiaa Laurene Daif, Worldwide Strategy Leader at Apple; and Grammy-nominated songwriter Makeba Riddick. Notable sessions included: Negotiations Workshop with Kathryn Valentine , CEO of Worthmore Strategies, sharing tactics specifically designed for hospitality contract and vendor relationship management , CEO of Worthmore Strategies, sharing tactics specifically designed for hospitality contract and vendor relationship management The Future of Guest Expectations panel featuring Heather Balsley , IHG Chief Commercial Officer; Mary Ellen Jelenek , American Express ; and Monica Xuereb , Loews Hotels , moderated by Kristie Goshow , Chief Commercial Officer of Peregrine Hospitality , IHG Chief Commercial Officer; , ; and , , moderated by , Chief Commercial Officer of Unlocking AI: The Power of the Right Prompts conducted by Steve Berrey , Global Head of AI & ML Solutions at Onix , Global Head of AI & ML Solutions at Hidden Careers in Hospitality panel exploring non-traditional leadership paths within the industry Hotels as Local Hubs discussion on strengthening community connections as a competitive advantage The 2025 ForWard Conference was sponsored by American Express, DIRECTV Hospitality, Ecolab, Encore, and RTRX.
