HSMAI Honors Trailblazing Leaders in Hospitality: Robert A. Gilbert Award 2026 Recipients Recognized for Revolutionizing Commercial Strategy

The world of hospitality has never seen anything like this before! The 2026 recipients of the Robert A. Gilbert Award for Career Achievement in Commercial Strategy have been announced, and they are redefining the very essence of leadership in hospitality sales, marketing, distribution, and revenue optimization. This prestigious award, named after Robert A. “Bob” Gilbert, former President and CEO of HSMAI (Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International), is a tribute to leaders who have shaped the industry with their exceptional skills, foresight, and commitment to innovation.

This year, three extraordinary leaders have earned the recognition: Mary Casey, Jeff Doane, and André Fournier. These three hospitality giants have spent decades transforming the industry and elevating it to new heights. Their influence doesn’t just lie in their performance—it’s about transforming teams, advancing the profession, and setting industry standards for future generations. Let’s dive deep into their incredible journeys and achievements.

Mary Casey: The Unstoppable Force Behind Global Hospitality Leadership

Who is Mary Casey? The name rings a bell for anyone who has ever stepped foot in the world of business events and hospitality. With over 35 years of experience, Mary Casey is a legendary hospitality and business-events leader whose career spans from Starwood Hotels & Resorts to Maritz, where she most recently served as Chief Client Officer. Throughout her illustrious career, Casey has been a driving force in enterprise-level sales, growth marketing, and client strategies. She has been instrumental in supporting both corporate and association clients, and was pivotal in leading the sales and field marketing team for 400+ hotels across North America.

Her commitment to talent development and high-performing teams has made her a true champion of the industry. Mary has made a huge impact on global organizations, transforming them into powerhouse brands. Whether it was her leadership role in Starwood’s transition into Marriott, where she supported more than 5,000 associates worldwide, or her leadership within HSMAI’s Sales Executive Roundtable, her mark on the industry is undeniable.

Her innovative approach to sales and marketing strategy is what set her apart. The future of business events and hospitality sales will forever be shaped by Mary’s vision and leadership.

Jeff Doane: The Mastermind Behind Omni Hotels & Resorts’ Commercial Strategy

Meet Jeff Doane, the Chief Commercial Officer at Omni Hotels & Resorts, a man whose commercial strategy has led Omni’s portfolio to unprecedented growth. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Doane has served in various leadership roles across major brands like Fairmont Raffles Hotels International and Accor North America, delivering exceptional results in brand marketing, digital platforms, sales, revenue management, and customer loyalty.

As a strategic visionary, Jeff Doane has been instrumental in overseeing Omni Hotels’ integrated commercial strategy, which spans across hotels in both the US and Canada. Under his guidance, Omni has seen tremendous growth, with loyalty programs thriving and top-line revenue consistently soaring. His work has set new standards for hospitality in the digital age, where brands must constantly adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

A key advocate for industry growth, Doane has also taken on leadership roles with the HSMAI Foundation and U.S. Travel, pushing for innovation, excellence, and industry progress. His visionary strategies are helping to shape the future of the hospitality sector, setting the stage for greater success in the years to come.

André Fournier: A Game-Changer in Commercial Strategy at CoralTree Hospitality

André Fournier’s career journey in the hospitality industry reads like a blueprint for success. As Chief Commercial Officer at CoralTree Hospitality, Fournier is a man who has truly redefined commercial strategy across sales, marketing, and revenue management. Starting his career at Arizona State University, he quickly rose through the ranks, holding senior commercial positions with major brands like Destination Hotels & Resorts and Two Roads Hospitality.

What sets André apart? It’s his people-first approach. His leadership at CoralTree Hospitality, which he helped launch in 2018, has been marked by a deep commitment to integrity, purpose, and long-term growth. His philosophy is simple—build strong teams, develop talent, and drive sustainable success. His vision and leadership have helped shape CoralTree into one of the most innovative companies in the hospitality space, and his impact has been felt across the industry.

Beyond his work at CoralTree, André has also been a key player in the relaunch of the HSMAI Denver Chapter, ensuring that commercial strategies continue to evolve and innovate in Colorado and beyond.

The Legacy of Robert A. Gilbert: Honoring a Lifelong Commitment to Hospitality Excellence

The Robert A. Gilbert Award for Career Achievement in Commercial Strategy isn’t just about individual accomplishments—it’s about the legacy of leadership and the enduring impact these visionaries leave on the hospitality industry. Named in tribute to Robert A. “Bob” Gilbert, who served as HSMAI’s President and CEO from 1995 to 2024, this award honors those whose careers have shaped the very foundation of the hospitality sales, marketing, and revenue optimization sectors.

Gilbert’s leadership and advocacy for commercial strategy are an integral part of the HSMAI legacy, and his vision continues to inspire these recipients to set the bar higher, challenge the status quo, and pave the way for future generations of hospitality leaders. It’s no surprise that Mary, Jeff, and André—these incredible honorees—have shaped the landscape of commercial strategy the way Bob Gilbert did for decades.

Celebrating Excellence: The Adrian Awards and HSMAI Americas’ Commercial Strategy Conference

The 2026 Gilbert Award honorees will be celebrated during the HSMAI Adrian Awards Celebration and at the HSMAI Americas’ Commercial Strategy Conference. These signature events bring together global leaders and peers from around the world to spotlight innovation, achievement, and excellence in the hospitality sector. With the brightest minds in the industry gathered to honor these extraordinary individuals, this year’s events promise to be nothing short of spectacular.

As these honorees step into the limelight, they will be celebrated not just for their achievements, but for the lasting impact they’ve had on the hospitality industry. This is a moment to celebrate their contributions, to acknowledge their leadership, and to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders. The 2026 HSMAI Adrian Awards will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in commercial strategy history.

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