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Bob Gilbert – Image Credit HSMAI
Bob Gilbert has been named a 2025 inductee into the Events Industry Council Hall of Leaders, recognizing his contributions to the meetings and hospitality sectors.
Robert A. “Bob” Gilbert, former president and CEO of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI), will be posthumously inducted into the Events Industry Council (EIC) Hall of Leaders in 2025. The induction ceremony will take place at the EIC Global Awards Celebration on October 6, 2025, in Las Vegas.
During his tenure at HSMAI, Gilbert played a significant role in transforming the organization from a U.S.-focused entity into a global association. In 2002, he established HSMAI Global, expanding its reach to Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. This expansion aimed to create an international community focused on professional standards and commercial excellence in the hospitality industry.
Gilbert’s leadership was marked by his integration of digital trends and the unification of revenue management, marketing, and group sales into a cohesive commercial strategy. He initiated conferences that have become key forums for professionals in commercial strategy, offering tools to navigate digital transformation and improve group revenue performance.
Throughout his career, Gilbert emphasized talent development and the importance of a skilled workforce in the hospitality sector. His work through the HSMAI Foundation aimed to address these challenges on a global scale by creating tools, partnerships, and programs for more effective and sustainable investment in human resources.
Gilbert’s influence extended to the development of globally recognized certifications and digital education platforms. He also guided the industry through significant crises, including the aftermath of 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on strategic and human-centered leadership.
The EIC Hall of Leaders induction highlights Gilbert’s lifetime contributions to the global events and hospitality community, acknowledging his impact on industry standards and leadership practices.
