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Kevin Carey – Image Credit AHLA Foundation
The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has appointed Kevin Carey as the new President and CEO of the AHLA Foundation. Effective immediately, Carey will take over this role while continuing his duties as AHLA’s Chief Operating Officer (COO). He succeeds Anna Blue, who left the position last month.
The AHLA Foundation is focused on advancing the hospitality industry and creating opportunities for its workforce. Carey has been recognized for his strong leadership and advocacy for the foundation and its goals. AHLA CEO Rosanna Maietta noted Carey’s experience designing and gaining funding for industry-wide initiatives as a key asset for his new role.
Anu Saxena, President of Hilton Supply Management and Chair of the AHLA Foundation Board of Trustees, praised Carey’s significant contribution to the association’s growth. He said Carey has been instrumental in the foundation’s development since its inception. The Board of Trustees expressed their anticipation of collaborating with Carey in the foundation’s next transformation phase.
On his appointment, Carey spoke about the AHLA Foundation’s critical role in shaping the industry’s future. He emphasized the importance of developing the industry’s workforce, creating accessible opportunities, and promoting hospitality careers. Carey is eager to work with the team to increase their impact, engage more with the industry, and develop programs supporting current and future hospitality professionals.
The AHLA Foundation has seen notable growth in the last two years under Blue’s leadership. The foundation has expanded its team and amplified the impact of its programs and initiatives. One such initiative is ForWard, which has seen significant growth in its influence.
The announcement of Carey’s appointment follows the foundation’s recent successful fundraiser, Night of A Thousand Stars. The event united over 400 industry leaders and raised over $1,000,000 to support the organization’s initiatives.
Before AHLA, Carey spent 25 years at American Express, where he led key global business groups. He also serves on the Industry Advisory Board for the Penn State School of Hospitality Management.
