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Curtis J. Crider – Image Credit GMBHA
The Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association (GMBHA) has announced Curtis J. Crider as its new president and CEO, effective May 2025. Crider brings decades of leadership experience in the luxury service, food and beverage, and hospitality sectors. His previous roles include chairman, president, and managing director of Jungle Island Resort.
The Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association (GMBHA) has appointed Curtis J. Crider as its new president and CEO, effective May 2025. Crider is an experienced leader with a substantial background in hospitality.
Before his new role with GMBHA, Crider served in several top management roles within the hospitality industry. He dedicated over three decades to shaping the region’s luxury service, food & beverage, and hospitality sectors. Most recently, he was chairman, president, and managing director of Jungle Island Resort. During this time, he was responsible for all operations and was key in launching Joia Beach, Miami’s first private beach club and restaurant.
As a leader, Crider’s initiatives have consistently led to revenue growth, improved employee satisfaction, and enhanced brand positioning. He also developed plans for an 18.6-acre eco-adventure park and hotel, which includes 300 guest rooms, a rooftop restaurant, pool bar, and 14,000 square feet of retail and meeting space.
Earlier in his career, Crider spent over 15 years with Sonesta Hotels, serving as general manager of the Sonesta Coconut Grove, a luxury AAA Four Diamond hotel, and resident manager at the Sonesta Beach Resort & Spa in Key Biscayne.
Crider, a Miami resident, serves on the boards of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, GMBHA Executive Board, and was vice president of the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce. He holds a degree from St. Petersburg College and his accolades include the City of Miami’s Community Involvement Award, Business of the Year Award, and General Manager of the Year.
Established in 1965, the GMBHA represents the hotel and hospitality industry in Miami-Dade County. The organization promotes the interests of its members through advocacy, education, and partnerships and works to advance Greater Miami as a preferred visitor destination.
