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Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, President and CEO, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI)
Engaging, attracting, and developing talent to elevate the sales, marketing and revenue management professionals in the global hospitality is at the core of the HSMAI Foundation. In addition, nurturing the talent pipeline was one of the top trends identified in the annual HSMAI Foundation State of Talent Report. This month, I want to highlight two HSMAI Foundation initiatives contributing to this endeavor – the HSMAI Foundation Global Collegiate Case Competition and the Mike Dimond Career Success Grants Program. These initiatives along with others HSMAI Foundation programs are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of hospitality leadership.
HSMAI Foundation Global Collegiate Case Competition
HSMAI Foundation Global Collegiate Case Competition serves as a catalyst in building a talent pipeline by providing a platform for hospitality students to demonstrate their strategic and critical thinking skills, and to apply their classroom learnings to real-world scenarios, fostering innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry. By participating, students gain exposure to cutting-edge marketing practices, network with industry leaders, and showcase their capabilities to potential employers and collaborators.
Celebrating the 2022 Winners
In 2022, we received many high-quality submissions from around the world. After careful evaluation by a panel of industry experts, followed by live presentations to the HSMAI Foundation Board, we declared two winning teams: Republic Polytechnic in the undergraduate competition and Purdue University at the graduate level.
Both campaigns impressed the judges with creativity, strategic thinking, and execution.
Announcing the 2023 Competition
Building on the success of last year, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2023 HSMAI Foundation Global Collegiate Case Competition. Open to all hospitality students across the globe, this competition offers a platform to display skills and gain industry recognition. We will provide participants with a challenging real-life case. Stay tuned for further updates on the official launch date and guidelines.
The Mike Dimond Career Success Grants
Mike Dimond was one of the top hotel marketing executives in the United States. He is a member of the HSMAI Hall of Fame and honored as one of “The 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality & Travel.” His family with the HSMAI Foundation created this program to expand and enhance the development opportunities available to hospitality students interested in careers in commercial strategy. Two Career Success Grants will be awarded to deserving hospitality students who are enrolled in a degree-seeking hospitality program.
HSMAI’s Hospitality Marketing Case Competition and Mike Dimond Grants contribute to building a robust talent pool within the hospitality industry. Through these programs, HSMAI empowers students by providing opportunities for development, networking, and exposure to real-world challenges. As the hospitality commercial disciplines continue to evolve, HSMAI initiatives will play a key role engaging, attracting, and developing future hospitality leaders to elevate the industry.