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HSMAI 2025 Hospitality Award Recipients - Press Release
HSMAI Ontario Celebrates Inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala with Resounding Success
TORONTO, ON – April 24, 2025 – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is thrilled to reflect on the overwhelming success of its inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala, held at the iconic Fairmont Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto. The exclusive event brought together General Managers, industry leaders, and hospitality professionals from across Ontario to celebrate leadership, innovation, and excellence in the Canadian hospitality sector.
“The energy and enthusiasm at our first-ever Hospitality Tribute Gala exceeded all expectations,” said Leon Mulder, President of HSMAI Ontario and Senior Partner Manager at Rocket Travel by Agoda. “It was an honour to recognize the incredible talent and dedication that drives our industry forward. We’re deeply grateful to all our sponsors for their generous support in making this grand night possible.”
A Night of Prestigious Honours
The gala recognized outstanding contributions with five distinguished awards:
- Industry Icon Achievement Award – Tony Pollard, former President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founder of Green Key Global Tony, a visionary in sustainability and hospitality leadership, spent 25 years as President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founded Green Key Global, the world's largest energy and environmental rating program for hotels. His contributions to policy, education, and sustainability have left a lasting impact on the industry.
- General Manager of the Year – Rob Housez, Chelsea Hotel Toronto
- Industry Partner of the Year – Chris Siedel, Encore Canada
- Rising Star – Jennifer Luke, Germain Hotels
- Commercial Impact Member of the Year – Mark Koop, Best Western Plus Toronto Airport
Congratulations to all the recipients.
An Evening of Celebration & Giving Back
Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, inspiring speeches, and an exciting auction, with proceeds supporting future HSMAI initiatives. The elegant setting of the Royal York Hotel provided the perfect backdrop for networking and celebration.
“We hope everyone had a fantastic evening—connecting with peers, enjoying the incredible food, and bidding on some amazing auction items,” added Leon Mulder. “This is just the beginning. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year for another unforgettable night of celebration. Stay tuned for the 2026 date announcement — you won’t want to miss it!”
Gratitude to Our Sponsors
HSMAI Ontario extends heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who contributed to bringing this epic inaugural event to life:
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- Encore Canada
- Fox Fold
- Rogers Business
- 6pmStudios
- Magic Moments
- Ignite Magazine
- Rocky Mountain Soap Company
The HSMAI Ontario Hospitality Tribute Gala was a resounding success, bringing together the brightest minds in hospitality for an evening of recognition, camaraderie, and inspiration. The energy in the room was displayed the passion and dedication that define our industry. As we reflect on this milestone event, we extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and attendees for making it truly unforgettable. This is just the beginning — stay tuned for exciting announcements about next year’s gala. The future of hospitality has never looked brighter!
For more information about the chapter events, membership or sponsorship opportunities visit HSMAIOntario.ca.
About HSMAI Ontario
HSMAI Ontario is committed to advancing the hospitality industry through education, collaboration, and professional development. Representing professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, HSMAI fosters a community that drives innovation and excellence in the sector.
Members gain access to valuable resources, including white papers, networking events, and the annual Revenue Optimization Conference.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Angela Bokma
Sr. Director of Marketing | VP Content on the HSMAI Ontario Board of Directors
Angela.Bokma@onvigo.com | 416.871.2500
HSMAI Ontario 2025 Hospitality Tribute Gala – Press Release
HSMAI Ontario Launches Inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala to Celebrate Industry Excellence
Toronto, ON - April 2, 2025- The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Ontario chapter is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala, an exclusive event dedicated to celebrating leadership, innovation, and excellence within the Canadian hospitality industry.
Bringing together General Managers, industry partners, and hospitality professionals from across Ontario, this milestone event will recognize the individuals and organizations that have made a lasting impact on the sector.
"Ontario's hospitality industry is built on resilience, creativity, and outstanding leadership. This gala is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to drive success, innovation, and guest satisfaction," said Leon Mulder, President, HSMAI Ontario and Senior Partner Manager at Rocket Travel by Agoda. "We invite the industry to join us in celebrating the people who are shaping the future of hospitality."
Honoring Excellence: Five Prestigious Awards
The gala will feature five distinguished awards, recognizing both established leaders and rising talent:
- General Manager of the Year - Celebrating exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and commitment to guest satisfaction.
- Industry Partner of the Year - Honouring a supplier or vendor that has provided outstanding products, services, or support to the hotel industry.
- Rising Star - Recognizing a young professional demonstrating leadership and promise in hospitality.
- Commercial Impact Member of the Year - Acknowledging a leader in sales, revenue management, or marketing who has driven measurable success.
- Industry Icon Achievement Award - The event's most prestigious honour, celebrating a visionary whose legacy has shaped Ontario's hospitality industry. Announcing, Tony Pollard, this year's legend!
Tony a visionary in sustainability and hospitality leadership, spent 25 years as President of the Hotel Association of Canada and founded Green Key Global, the world's largest energy and environmental rating program for hotels. His contributions to policy, education, and sustainability have left a lasting impact on the industry.
OPEN CALL FOR NOMINATIONS. Know a deserving leader-or rising talent? Nominate them today >> https://tinyurl.com/muvfrrux.
An Evening to Remember
Set to be one of Ontario's most anticipated hospitality events, the HSMAI Ontario Hospitality Tribute Gala will provide an elegant evening of networking, celebration, and industry recognition.
Leon goes on to say, "The HSMAI Gala isn't just another industry event - it's where Ontario's hospitality heartbeat comes alive. This is where we celebrate the game-changers, the innovators, and the future leaders who make our industry extraordinary. If you're serious about hospitality, you need to be in that room.'
Join us April 23 at the Fairmont Royal York. Tickets are available for both HSMAI members and non-members - don't miss this unforgettable night of celebration! Individual tickets are available or bring the team and celebrate together.
>> https://www.hsmaiontario.ca/events/general-manager-tribute-gala
For more information about the event, membership or sponsorship opportunities visit HSMAIOntario.ca.
About HSMAI Ontario
HSMAI Ontario is dedicated to advancing the hospitality industry through education, collaboration, and professional development. Representing professionals in sales, marketing, and revenue management, HSMAI fosters a community that drives innovation and excellence in the sector. Members gain access to a range of resources, from white papers to Revenue Optimization Conference insights, all designed for sustainable growth.
Media Contact:
Angela Bokma
Sr. Director of Marketing | HSMAI Ontario Board of Director
Angela.Bokma@onvigo.com
416.871.2500
HSMAI Ontario Shines at Leadership Conference, Wins “Best of the Best” Awards in 2 Categories!
January 2025
Florida - HSMAI Ontario attended the HSMAI Mike Leven Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida on January 29 & 30 at the Hotel Landy. Four representatives from the Ontario chapter (Leon Mulder - Rocket Travel by Agoda, Mimi AuYeung - Ritz-Carlton Toronto, Brendan St Jacques - RoomsRelay Hire, and Kim Dumeah - Travelodge Canada) attended leadership development sessions and networked with leaders from HSMAI chapters across the Americas.
In addition to growth and development, HSMAI Ontario was thrilled to receive the Frank W. Berkman "Best of the Best" awards for Membership and Education. These highly competitive category wins show the dedication and effort put forth by our Board of Directors (Leadership | HSMAI Ontario). None of these awards would be possible without Ontario's engaged and active hospitality community. Chapter President, Leon Mulder says “We’re excited to expand our programming and opportunities in 2025 and I foresee even more awards on the horizon. There are numerous ways for businesses to engage and participate with the chapter, and If you're interested in getting involved, let’s connect!”
Christopher Ashby Board of Directors, VP membership appointed to new position
TORONTO — Chelsea Hotel, Toronto has named Christopher Ashby as Director of Commercial Operations.
Ashby brings 20+ years of sales, marketing and strategic planning experience to his new role on the hotel’s executive management team.
HSMAI Ontario to host Toronto event on June 20
Hospitality Sales Marketing Association International’s (HSMAI) Ontario chapter will be hosting “Trends in the GDS Ecosystem and Strategic Use of Grants to Leverage Revenue” on June 20 at the Park Hyatt Toronto.
Learn More
HSMAI ONTARIO PRESENTS TWO KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AT PARK HYATT TORONTO
TORONTO — HSMAI Ontario: GDS Trends, HOD Audit, Grant Strategies & Networking will be held on June 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Park Hyatt Toronto, featuring keynote speakers Heather Downing (Amadeus Hospitality) and Stephanie Sang (Get Granted).