Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is currently accepting applications for participants, judges and mentors for Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at HITEC Houston. Those interested can apply via the HITEC website - startups can apply here, and volunteers can apply here. E20X Houston will take place on Monday, June 18 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Gorge R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.E20X participants will be selected from the field of applicants and pitch their business concepts to a panel of expert judges and HITEC attendees and exhibitors. Participants will have access to a team of mentors before the competition, who will inspire and educate the startups by lending them insights, expertise and guidance. The E20X judge's panel will determine the grand prize, "E20X Judge's Choice Award," winner while the audience will determine the crowd favorite, "E20X People's Choice Award," winner. Selected startups will also receive a kiosk in the HITEC Houston exhibit hall.E20X mentor opportunities are available to industry professionals who would like to volunteer and share their knowledge with participants the day of the competition. Day-of mentors will meet face-to-face with participants in a series of pre-booked meetups hours before the E20X competition takes place sharing their experience, answering questions and making invaluable connections."Being an entrepreneur, running your own business, can be challenging in the sense that you are solely making decisions without the guidance of feedback," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HFTP's Entrepreneur 20X event gives startups the opportunity to showcase their products, services and ideas in front of a global network of industry peers including investors, c-level experts and a judges panel that is guaranteed to serve as a steppingstone on your path to success."HFTP remaining events for 2018 include HITEC Houston - HFTP's largest event of the year - from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), will honor Sean Van Dyke, CHTP as the 2018 Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) of the Year at HITEC Houston this June. The CHTP of the Year award honors the individual that scored the highest on the CHTP certification exam within a given year. HITEC Houston, HFTP's second and largest HITEC of 2018, will take place from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA.Van Dyke works as a director of IT at St. Julien Hotel & Spa, a luxury four star/diamond spot located in Boulder, Colorado USA. Van Dyke mentions computers are both his day job and also his hobby. He enjoys building virtual environments, dabbling with containers and staying up on the latest VR news."Getting the CHTP certification made a lot of sense for me," said Van Dyke. "It offers recognition of my specialized knowledge in both my field of study and the particular industry in which I make my career applying those skills. It is a unique designation which stands out to my industry colleagues."Developed jointly by HFTP and the Educational Institute (EI) of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AH&LA), the CHTP designation is the ultimate achievement in hospitality information technology by showing a dedication to both the hospitality and technology industries. The CHTP exam was first given in 1994 at HITEC in Dallas, Texas USA. Since then, more than 400 professionals have earned the CHTP designation around the world. HFTP also administers the examination and awards the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) industry designation.HFTP's certification programs are globally recognized for setting industry standards for hospitality finance and technology. Qualification for the exams is based on level of education and experience in the industry; student programs are also available. Active certificants have reported higher salaries and various career advancement opportunities. Becoming certified indicates and individual's commitment to professionalism, continuing education and their chosen career path.For more information on HFTP's certification programs, contact HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at certification@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org.HFTP remaining events for 2018 include HITEC Houston - HFTP's largest event of the year - from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org. Download the 2018 HFTP event mobile app from the Apple Store or Google Play - information coming available as each event nears.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes, HFTP GDPR Bytes and HFTP FB Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

In its second year, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) European HITEC was held last week where top industry experts exchanged knowledge geared toward shaping the future of hospitality globally. Discussions were held on the hottest topics in the industry - artificial intelligence, voice recognition, data science, robotics, customer journey and the EU GDPR. Over 100 companies displayed the latest in available hospitality technology products available around the globe.Kicking-off the event was HFTP's Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) where 11 entrepreneurs presented their innovative technology to a panel of expert judges. Startup KITRO was awarded the Judge's Choice grand prize award of EUR2,500. Following the competition, participants were available to meet with delegates in the Innovation Lab. Delegates had an opportunity to select their favorite innovative technology, which differed from the E20X Judges Award. For the second time, the favorite technology of delegates at a HITEC event went to Arrivedo.Another highlight of the conference might well have been the largest gathering ever of European hospitality CIO and CFOs. The invitation only event, sponsored by Fourteen IP Communications, provided the c-level audience an opportunity to address current day problems and speculate about the future. The sometimes spirited discussion offered insight into what the near future trends might be, and what the roles of industry professionals will be in the future. The stellar educational program ended with Frits van Paasschen, best-selling author and former CEO of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, providing unique perspective on trends shaping the global economy.The partner of the conference - the exhibitions - was not as stellar or up to HFTP standards. "Producing hospitality events for more than four decades, and being a nonprofit organization, HFTP sets higher standards regarding the quality and overall experience of our stakeholders than other conferences and exhibitions," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "We work passionately on behalf of the industry year-round to provide the best possible tools and experiences for all of our participants - including our exhibiting companies. A positive exhibitor experience was not the case at this event."The first sign of trouble exhibitors experienced was set-up preparations, which overflowed into actual opening exhibit hours. During the event, exhibitors experienced internet problems and the traffic inside the exhibition hall was clearly disappointing.Although buyers registered for the event, checked in on site and were available on the event app, the numbers inside the exhibitions were not what we expected. So, in recognition of the energy and time HFTP supporters spent preparing for the event, ALL exhibiting companies were offered a partial refund of their stand reservation fees. "HFTP continues to expand and evolve for the industry and its promise is to do our best to make the quality of the experience positive," Wolfe said. "In spite of the troubles, HITEC Amsterdam already has really good support from the exhibitions side and has sold almost 50 percent of the available stands for 2019."HFTP remaining events for 2018 include HITEC Houston - HFTP's largest event of the year - from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HFTP Annual Convention will October 24-26 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. For more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career. Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Building on the expertise of planning and producing the world's largest hospitality technology show, Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), will host HITEC Dubai 2018 from December 5-6, 2018 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE. Produced in partnership with Naseba, HFTP's HITEC Dubai will serve as the association's third and final HITEC of 2018.The event is a Middle Eastern counterpart to the tremendously successful annual HITEC which brings together thousands of individuals from the hospitality technology community to a different city in North America each year. Since Dubai is one of the world's leading international business centers and regional hubs with a booming hospitality industry, HFTP has expand its recognized HITEC to the region. HFTP recently opened a Dubai Research Center, which serves as an office space and research center, located in the Dubai World Trade Centre. HFTP has employed two graduate students from The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management to conduct regional research, benefitting the association and its international scale of events and resources."Last year's inaugural HITEC Dubai event featured 600+ hospitality stakeholders, 40+ solution and service providers and 30+ industry expert speakers," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "The demand for HITEC Dubai 2018 was such a great success that the event outgrew its initial venue. HFTP is excited to expand its educational resources and expert networks across The Middle East."The partnership between HFTP and Naseba for HITEC Dubai combines both organizations' vast experience in the sector to build the ultimate hospitality technology platform in the GCC region. Naseba brings additional, local expertise to the event whereas HFTP has appointed a HITEC Dubai Advisory Council to assist with the education program.Planning for HITEC Dubai has begun, and will reflect practices and trends specific to The Middle East. Top regional experts will be diligently selected to volunteer their industry expertise on the HITEC Dubai Advisory Council and provide guidance for the event's education program. Reservations for exhibit space at HITEC Dubai are now being taken. HITEC Dubai also offers multiple sponsorship and advertising opportunities for exhibitors to increase impressions before and after the show. For more information, contact HFTP Director of Exhibits Paula Lerash, CEM at Paula.Lerash@hftp.org.In addition to HITEC Dubai, HFTP is currently hosting HITEC Amsterdam from April 11-13 at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam. The larger HITEC Houston is from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec. Click here to watch a video from HITEC Dubai 2017.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Gearing up for the first Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) of 2018, event producers Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is excited to announce the launch of this year's "HFTP Events" mobile app. The HFTP event 2018 mobile app is home to all the information attendees and exhibitors will need for HITEC Amsterdam, HITEC Houston and Annual Convention this year, with information coming available as the event nears. Available now for download from the iTunes Apple Store and Google Play, the app will serve as a comprehensive guide for information on education sessions and exhibits while also providing social feeds and in-app correspondence capabilities for exhibitors and attendees.The HFTP events 2018 mobile app is a benefit for event attendees, serving as an interactive and informative tool. Users should create a profile and login to gain access to all app functionality. Once logged in, users will have the ability to create a customized educational schedule and link speaker biographies, session evaluations and more. Mobile app users will also be able to connect with other attendees using searchable directories, direct messaging and meeting booking functionalities. Robust searching gives users the capability to network a practical way to find and make direct contact for potential business opportunities."As a hospitality association, HFTP is always looking for ways to enhance the experience for our event attendees and members," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "The decision to create a combined mobile app again in 2018 comes from our determination to offer corporate event attendees a feature-rich tool in an easy-to-use and convenient platform. Attendees will not only benefit from the interactive capabilities and mobile planning functions, the app gives users a front seat to all of the event information."The HFTP event mobile app is a resource complete with all the information you will need to navigate the association's upcoming events in 2018. Event maps, floorplans, survey links, information sites, educational credits are only some of the resources available inside the app. Discover information about event speakers, exhibitors, sponsors, Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) and much more. Stay updated with HFTP through the app's activity feed feature, which streamlines all social channels into one space.Next up on the HFTP event schedule is HITEC Amsterdam - the first of three HITEC events HFTP will produce in 2018 - taking place next week from April 11-13 at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam. HITEC Houston, HFTP's largest event of the year, will take place from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HFTP Annual Convention will take place October 24-26, 2018 at the Omni Louisville Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky USA. HITEC Dubai will take place December 5-6 at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE.For a full listing and more information about HFTP's international events, visit www.hftp.org and www.hitec.org or contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is pleased to announce the joint development of a new program with the NYU School of Professional Studies (NYUSPS ) Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism, which provides the students with the opportunity to prepare for their HFTP Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP ) designation.The program, which is expected to launch in the 2018-2019 academic year, will include HFTP-approved CHTP information in the School's 14-week class syllabus. A faculty advisor, who has attained and maintains the CHTP certification, will be appointed by NYUSPS to teach the class and oversee the program offerings. Upon completion of the class, the first step in attaining the designation is to submit a Student CHTP Certification Application to HFTP and take the certification exam."Receiving a hospitality designation from HFTP is a good way for students to jump-start their professional careers in hospitality," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HFTP's certification programs are globally recognized for setting industry standards for hospitality finance and technology."Nicolas Graf, associate dean of the NYUSPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism, who was instrumental in moving this initiative forward, commented "We are delighted that through our agreement with HFTP, we will be able to offer our students additional educational and credentialing opportunities in areas that are driving forces in the hospitality industry."HFTP offers the only designations for finance and technology professionals who are working in the hospitality industry. Both the CHAE and CHTP designations require professionals to sit for an initial competency exam, and complete continuing education credits for each renewal cycle. Qualification for the exams is based on level of education and experience in the industry; student programs are also available.For more information about HFTP's certification programs, contact HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at robin.bogdon@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org. For immediate information, visit the FAQ pages for both CHTP and CHAE certifications.About the NYUSPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and TourismThe NYUSPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism has prepared global leaders in the dynamic, expanding industries of travel, tourism, and hospitality for more than 20 years. With widely recognized, cutting-edge undergraduate and graduate degree and noncredit Career Advancement Courses and Professional Diplomas, as well as a deep commitment to integrating theory with practice, the NYUSPS Tisch Center is the perfect environment in which to embark upon an academic journey that prepares professionals for careers in hospitality and tourism. Students have access to the extraordinary resources of New York University, one of the world's leading research and teaching institutions. Tisch Center students benefit not only from the expertise of dedicated full-time faculty members, but also from adjunct faculty members and guest lecturers who are renowned in their fields, unparalleled access to industry leaders, invaluable site visits and study away opportunities, and highly successful global alumni who serve as mentors. Through rigorous curricula, applicable research, and a hands-on approach to learning, students gain the preparation, knowledge, and skills sought by employers. For more information about the NYUSPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism, visit sps.nyu.edu/tisch.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org.Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

OpenTravel Alliance (OpenTravel), a nonprofit responsible for developing and maintaining interoperability for disparate systems in all verticals of the travel industry, is pleased to extend its partnership with Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and co-locate European conferences in April 2018. OpenTravel will co-locate its Advisory Forum, taking place from 11-13 April 2018, with HFTP's HITEC Amsterdam, taking place from 11-13 April 2018. Both events will take place at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam.Online registration and housing is open for the OpenTravel Advisory Forum. Agenda highlights for the Advisory Forum include: education from recognized technology leaders, case studies from companies utilizing OpenTravel standards, collaborative panels on enabling the consumer experience, evolving distribution standards, collaboration stories on standards, networking and more. Also, the results from the OpenTravel Virtual Hackathon held in March will be revealed at the OpenTravel Challenge.Education topics range from GDPR and evolving distribution standards to hospitality and tourism in Europe. As an organization that represents the business and leisure consumer's end-to-end travel, the OpenTravel Advisory Forum will feature the latest travel trends for a unified consumer experience."OpenTravel is the source for the most adopted, cross-industry technology standards that enable business solutions driven by the travel community," said Mike Tinkey, CEO at OpenTravel. "We are excited to co-locate in Europe our Advisory Forum with HFTP's regional HITEC Amsterdam, and provide attendees with more resources and education in one setting", shared Susanne Auinger, Chairperson of OpenTravel and the OpenTravel Advisory Forum Amsterdam.Together, OpenTravel and HFTP encompass an extended group of stakeholders and industry professionals; combining resources will enable better communication, and allow stakeholders to conduct business more efficiently.For more information about OpenTravel Alliance, please contact media@opentravel.org or visit http://opentravel.org. To register for the OpenTravel Advisory Forum, click here.About OpenTravel AllianceOpenTravel Alliance is passionate about solving the problems inherent with connecting multiple systems within the complex travel distribution arena. Our mission is to enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers. OpenTravel Alliance creates, expands and drives adoption of open specifications, including but not limited to the use of XML, for the electronic exchange of business information among all sectors of the travel industry.OpenTravel Alliance is comprised of companies representing airlines, car rental firms, hotels, cruise lines, railways, leisure suppliers, service providers, tour operators, travel agencies, solutions providers, technology companies and distributors. Tens of thousands of OpenTravel Alliance message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between trading partners every day.OpenTravel Alliance is a not-for-profit trade association, founded in 1999 by travel companies, with a primary focus on the creation of electronic message structures to facilitate communication between the disparate systems in the global travel industry. For more information on OpenTravel Alliance membership, new products, or projects, please visit http://www.opentravel.org or email info@opentravel.org.Follow OpenTravel on Twitter (@OpenTravel) and LinkedIn and the LinkedIn Group page.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce the selected hospitality technology startups and expert judges panel that will participate in Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at HITEC Amsterdam next month. All registered HITEC attendees are welcome to attend the action-packed pitch competition taking place on Wednesday, 11 April 2018 beginning at 14:30 in the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre.Participants will have access to a team of mentors, before the competition, who will inspire and educate the startups by lending them insights, expertise and guidance. E20X innovators have four minutes to present their breakthrough business concepts to a room full of HITEC attendees as well as a panel of expert judges. Selected startups compete for two available awards: the E20X Judges' Award and the E20X People's Startup Award. The startup deemed "most innovative" by the judge's panel will win a EUR2,500 cash prize. The startup selected by HITEC Amsterdam attendees, via the HITEC mobile app, will be presented with a trophy on Friday, 13 April at the closing keynote session. Attendees will have additional opportunities to visit with startups in days following the competition at the Innovation Lab on the HITEC show floor.The following innovative startups will pitch their cutting-edge ideas to a room full of attendees and a panel of expert judges at the Amsterdam version of the globally recognized pitch competition. The 2018 E20X Amsterdam pitching companies include:SwayyRoomRaccoonChargifiKITROReceptioHO[S]TELOFER.ONLINEJibestreamOrbital Systems ABArrivedoClimber HotelHotelFlexE20X Amsterdam pitchers will present their technologies to an expert panel of judges with backgrounds in hospitality, technology and entrepreneurship. The 2018 E20X Amsterdam judges' panel includes:Carson Booth, CHTP, startup technology consultant at Venture Capital & Private Equity and chairman of the HITEC Amsterdam 2018 Advisory CouncilPrakash Shukla, managing partner at SolarexMichael Levie, CHTP, chief operations officer at citizenM and treasurer on the HFTP Global 2017-2018 Board of DirectorsBarry Thomas, CHTP, area director of information technology at Rosewood, London and council member on the HITEC Amsterdam 2018 Advisory Council"Entrepreneur 20X is a great platform for hospitality startups to present their business concepts to the industry," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HITEC brings together hospitality leaders from across the globe -creating an unparalleled network for attendees."Watch E20X videos from previous years on the HFTP YouTube channel. For more information on HITEC Amsterdam marketing opportunities, contact HFTP COO, Europe Carl Weldon at carl.weldon@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4164. For more information about HFTP's global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.HITEC Amsterdam will be the first of three HITEC events in 2018. The larger HITEC Houston will take place 18-21 June at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HITEC Dubai will take place 5-6 December at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HTIEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Byes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

AUSTIN, TEXAS, USA -- Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), an international nonprofit and producers of the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce its exclusive CIO/CFO event sponsorship agreement with Fourteen IP Communications Ltd at the upcoming HITEC Amsterdam 2018. The invitation-only event that brings together CIOs and CFOs from leading hotel and hospitality companies from across Europe will take place on 11 April to kick-off HITEC Amsterdam, which is taking place from 11-13 April at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre.The CIO/CFO pre-conference event will feature a welcome and introductions from HFTP, updates on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Officer role, as well as CIO and CFO roundtable discussions. The roundtable discussions will bring together high-level, hospitality CIOs and CFOs from across Europe for a face-to-face discussion on crucial issues their companies are encountering."We are excited to have Fourteen IP as an exclusive sponsor for the CIO/CFO event at HITEC Amsterdam next month," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "As a leading systems integrator specializing in voice and data solutions, the team at Fourteen IP has been helping make hospitality communications simple and effective for 25 years. Looking forward to an innovative partnership at HITEC Amsterdam.""We are very proud to be not just exhibiting at HITEC Amsterdam, but also taking the lead sponsorship on the CIO/CFO day," said Neil Tolley, managing director at Fourteen IP. "It's a great opportunity for us to network with the people we really want to speak to and to tell them a little about our company and our solutions, as well as bringing our usual sense of fun to the evening's events. We are very grateful to the HFTP team for their superb support."For more information on HITEC Amsterdam marketing opportunities, contact HFTP COO, Europe Carl Weldon at carl.weldon@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4164. For more information about HFTP's global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit the HFTP web site.HITEC Amsterdam will be the first of three HITEC events in 2018. The larger HITEC Houston will take place 18-21 June at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HITEC Dubai will take place 5-6 December at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, UAE.

OpenTravel Alliance (OpenTravel) is hosting a series of virtual hackathons, with the first taking place now. Register and submit your web-based application until April 8, 2018. The online event, sponsored by LinksRez, is designed to enhance the experience of the connected travel consumer.The challenge includes creating a web-based application that enhances the connected consumer's travel experience in a unique way, utilizing at least one of the provided APIs that implement OpenTravel messaging. API providers include: LinksRez, IATA and MASAI Mobility Community (M2C) and encompasses travel verticals including hotel, car rental, ground transportation, air and golf.Open Travel is the source for the most adopted, cross-industry technology standards that enable business solutions driven by the travel community. "Our virtual hackathons create opportunities to build solutions around OpenTravel standards," said OpenTravel CEO Mike Tinkey. "We encourage developers to be creative and innovative. We look forward to seeing what new insights this year's events bring."The OTA virtual hackathon will feature five judges who will judge the applications based on originality, technical merit, presentation skill and how well the project addresses the hackathon challenge. Along with cash prizes the winners of the virtual hackathon will have the opportunity to have their applications presented at the OpenTravel Advisory Forum in Amsterdam next month.If you are interested in providing your APIs which use OpenTravel messaging, or in sponsoring a future event, please email OpenTravel Director of Specifications Sandy Angel at sandy.angel@opentravel.org for more information. Click here to register for the event.About OpenTravel AllianceOpenTravel Alliance is passionate about solving the problems inherent with connecting multiple systems within the complex travel distribution arena. Our mission is to enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers. OpenTravel Alliance creates, expands and drives adoption of open specifications, including but not limited to the use of XML and JSON, for the electronic exchange of business information among all sectors of the travel industry.OpenTravel Alliance is comprised of companies representing airlines, car rental firms, hotels, cruise lines, railways, leisure suppliers, service providers, tour operators, travel agencies, solutions providers, technology companies and distributors. Tens of thousands of OpenTravel Alliance message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between trading partners every day.OpenTravel Alliance is a not-for-profit trade association, founded in 1999 by travel companies, with a primary focus on the creation of electronic message structures to facilitate communication between the disparate systems in the global travel industry. For more information on OpenTravel Alliance membership, new products, or projects, please visit http://www.opentravel.org or email info@opentravel.org.###END###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is pleased to announce Keystep Solutions as the exclusive sponsor of the upcoming HFTP London Interest Meeting. Keystep Solutions is a family owned British company specializing in access control systems - they include: electronic keycard locks, access readers, energy-saving room switches and lift controllers. The event will take place Monday, 12 March 2018 at the Rosewood Hotel in London. Guests are invited to join HFTP and top European hospitality executives for an evening of interesting speakers and discussion. Those interested in attending the complimentary event can RSVP online.Beginning at 18:30, Keystep Solutions CEO Andrew Evans will lead a presentation on "The Age of RFID and AI." He will be followed by STR Global Senior Manager Regional Accounts Manager Ivana Neskovic who will present "2017 Year-end Hotel Trends in Europe and the United Kingdom." Information and the latest on hospitality GDPR and data mapping challenges, plus an update on the HFTP GDPR Task Force will be presented by Privalis Group Managing Director Jose Medio, Attorney, CIPP/us, CIPP/E."We are grateful for our partnership with Keystep Solutions again this year for our second London Interest Meeting," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP. "HFTP is dedicated to provide the best education and resources internationally, and our 2018 London Interest Meeting is a great opportunity for hospitality professionals in the area to connect and help ameliorate our industry as a whole."HFTP continues to expand its events and resources internationally, and hosted its first London Interest Meeting in 2017 - where Keystep Solutions was the program's sponsor. For more information about HFTP's London membership event, contact HFTP COO, Europe Carl Weldon, FIH FHOSPA at Carl.Weldon@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4164. For more information about HFTP's global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HTIEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Byes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), an international nonprofit association and producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), has sold all exhibit spaces for the upcoming HITEC Amsterdam 2018. HITEC Amsterdam will feature 84 exhibiting companies - a 43 percent increase from the inaugural 2017 event. A floorplan with a list of participating companies is available on the HITEC Amsterdam website. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from 11-13 April at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre in The Netherlands.For companies who were not able to reserve a booth in time, a waiting list for booth space is available with placement given on a first-come, first-served basis. HFTP also offers exhibitor supporter packages for non-exhibiting companies, which grants access to all of the same perks HITEC exhibitors receive - the next best thing to having a booth. Exhibitor supporters receive two full conference registrations, recognition in the HITEC mobile app as well as branding throughout the conference.For exhibiting companies, sponsorship opportunities are available for companies to stand out and have their organization name seen by the thousand plus attendees before and after the show. See which opportunities are still available and download the marketing kit by visiting the event website."The inaugural HITEC Amsterdam event last year featured over 1,100 hospitality professionals from around the globe," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP. "HITEC dominates the hospitality conference and tradeshow space on an international level, and is a valuable way for companies to gain exposure within the North American, European and Middle Eastern markets."Booth space for HITEC Houston, the largest HITEC of 2018, is available now - last year's space sold out quicker than ever before. HITEC, produced by HFTP since 1972, offers a unique combination of top-notch hospitality technology and finance education, led by industry peers and experts, and an unparalleled trade show showcasing the latest hospitality technology products and services.For more information, contact exhibit@hftp.org and visit www.hitec.org and www.hftp.org. To get on the exhibitor waiting list, contact HFTP Director of Exhibits Paula Lerash, CEM at paula.lerash@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-6447. For more information about supporter packages, contact HFTP Sales Associate Matt Chambers at matt.chambers@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-6443. For more information on HITEC Amsterdam marketing opportunities, contact HFTP COO, Europe Carl Weldon at carl.weldon@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4164.HITEC Amsterdam will be the first of three HITEC events in 2018. The larger HITEC Houston will take place June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HITEC Dubai will take place in December in Dubai, UAE.About HITECHospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Find updates on the HFTP News page, and exhibitor news on the HITEC Bytes site. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTPHospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook (@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HTIEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes, HFTP Finance Bytes and HFTP GDPR Byes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producer of the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is pleased to announce that Frits van Paasschen and Nancy Rademaker will serve as keynote speakers for HITEC Amsterdam 2018. Rademaker will present the opening keynote on 12 April from 09:00 to 10:30 about "Extreme Customer Centricity in a Networked World." Van Paasschen will present the closing keynote on 13 April from 13:30 to 15:00 about "Improving Your Odds of Success in a Time of Accelerating Change and Disruption."A former fortune 500 CEO with over 30 years of experience, van Paasschen spent more than a decade serving as CEO at Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide and The Coors Brewing Company. He has held several management positions including president of Europe, Middle East and Africa at Nike, and in the financial division at Disney. Seasoned global executive and author of The Disruptors' Feast, an Amazon best-seller, van Paasschen has a deep understanding of trends that are reshaping the global economy. Originally from Europe, van Paasschen holds dual United States and Dutch citizenship, speaks five languages, and has visited 115 countries.With over 20 years of technology experience, Rademaker has worked for different IT companies including Microsoft in the Netherlands and Europe. She is enthusiastic about customer-centric strategies, and likes to focus on how technology influences people's behavior. Rademaker joined Nexxworks in 2016 where she inspires companies how to act upon The Day After Tomorrow. She is an expert on extreme customer centricity, and educates people about new business models and technology to help their businesses lead in this age of disruption."HFTP is proud to host two keynote heavyweights at HITEC Amsterdam this April," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Both speakers have European roots and international expertise in hospitality and technology, and are guaranteed to inspire audiences with new ideas and concepts that will help evolve the future of our industry."HFTP will produce three HITEC events in 2018. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from 11-13 April at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The largest HITEC Houston will take place from 18-21 June at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HITEC Dubai will take place from 5-6 December. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career. Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. For more information about HITEC, visit www.hitec.org. Follow HITEC on social media: Facebook (@HITECconference); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes. HITEC event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues, and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. The association also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine: PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.For the latest news, visit the HFTP News page at news.hftp.org and the HFTP Connect blog at blog.hftp.org. Follow HFTP on social media: Facebook(@HFTPGlobal); LinkedIn; Twitter (@HFTP); Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC). Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes. HFTP event photos are available on Flickr, and HFTP event videos are available on YouTube.###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), is currently accepting applications for participants, judges and mentors for Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at HITEC Amsterdam. Those who wish to participate in the European version of E20X can apply online; startups can apply here, and mentors and volunteers can apply here. E20X Amsterdam, a pre-conference event, will take place at 14:30 on Wednesday, 11 April at the RAI Convention Center in Amsterdam.E20X participants will be selected from the field of applicants, and pitch their business concepts to a panel of expert judges and HITEC attendees and exhibitors. Participants will have access to a team of mentors, before the competition, who will inspire and educate the startups by lending them insights, expertise and guidance. The E20X judge's panel will determine the grand prize, "E20X Judge's Award," winner while the audience will determine the crowd favorite, "E20X People's Startup Award," winner. Past applicants and winners are welcome to re-apply as long as they are still considered Series A or a startup.Two E20X mentor opportunities are available to industry professionals who would like to volunteer: pre-show mentors and day-of competition mentors. Pre-show mentors will entertain a series of brief one-on-one calls with chosen pitchers leading up to the competition, providing coaching and pitch deck feedback. Day-of mentors will meet face-to-face with participants in a series of pre-booked meetups hours before the E20X competition takes place sharing their experience, getting their brain picked and making invaluable connections."E20X is a powerful and popular highlight featured at HITEC," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Startups, judges and mentors receive global exposure within our industry. Industry veterans will have the chance to showcase their knowledge, and help budding entrepreneurs reach new career goals."HFTP will produce three HITEC events in 2018. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from 11-13 April at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam. The larger HITEC Houston will take place from 18-21 June at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA - applications are also open for E20X Houston. HITEC Dubai will return in the fall of 2018. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherland and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or visit the media center. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.###END###

International association Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) recently introduced its new Certification Advisory Program (CAP), which is designed to provide guidance to Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) applicants.The inaugural program will pair HFTP certification candidates with HFTP members who hold an active HFTP designation. The advisors will help and support candidates via one-to-one interactions as a supplemental review option for the certification exams. Approved CAP advisors can earn HFTP education credits to help them meet their designation maintenance requirements."HFTP certification demonstrates superior performance - in both technology and accounting - to the industry," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "The CAP program is a great opportunity for certification designees and applicants to elevate their professionalism and leadership development. Having the guidance, encouragement and support of a trusted mentor will help mentees reach new career goals."HFTP offers the only designations for finance and technology professionals who are working in the hospitality industry. Both the CHAE and CHTP designations require professionals to sit for an initial competency exam, and complete continuing education credits for each renewal cycle. Qualification for the exams is based on level of education and experience in the industry; student programs are also available.If you are interested in being considered for a CAP advisor, please submit a CAP application today. For more information about the Certification Advisory Program or HFTP certifications, email HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at robin.bogdon@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org. For immediate information, visit the FAQ pages for both CHTP and CHAE certifications.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.

Several chapters of Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) have banded together to curate and host regional, educational conferences in 2018. HFTP's regional conferences showcase the many advantages of HFTP membership, and provide continuing education and networking opportunities to hospitality professionals in the area. To date, two HFTP regional conferences have been scheduled in areas across the United States."HFTP's regional conferences are known for their intimate nature and top-notch education sessions," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP. "Regional conferences allow attendees to network with other professionals in their geographic region, and create bonds that will assist them both professionally and personally."Below is a list of the upcoming HFTP regional conferences:Mid-South Atlantic Regional 2018 - February 15-17 at The Westin Poinsett Greenville in Greenville, South Carolina USAFlorida Regional 2018 - July 25-27 at the Sarasota Westin in Sarasota, Florida USAThe Mid-South Atlantic Regional is hosted by HFTP's Central Carolina, Charlotte-Blue Ridge, South Carolina and Central Virginia chapters. The Florida Regional is hosted by HFTP's Florida Gulf Coast, Manasota and University of South Florida Sarasota chapters.Sponsorship opportunities and a schedule of events are available on each event's webpage via the HFTP website. For additional information on these conferences, please use the contact information provided on each event's webpage or contact the HFTP Chapter Regional & Club Coordinator at regionals@hftp.org.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.##END##

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), an international nonprofit hospitality association, announced today the launch of its new GDPR Bytes website. Powered by Hsyndicate, an electronic media-hub based in The Netherlands, GDPR Bytes is an aggregated content destination where users will find the latest news all in one place. The cross-platform site serves as a daily news outlet that brings together specific publications, reports, feature articles, white papers and more.As hospitality companies conducting business in Europe prepare to make operational changes to conform with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), HFTP and its HDPO Task Force, consisting of 23 industry experts from around the globe, have been working to increase GDPR awareness as well as develop educational resources to benefit the industry at large. In addition to GDPR Bytes, HFTP has released an extensive range of available GDPR tools including, but not limited to: publications; compliance tools; webinars; blogs; podcasts; more."In order to comply with GDPR, EU-based organizations - as well as any organization handling personal information from EU citizens - should guarantee that proper policies and procedures are being followed," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP. "GDPR tools and resources, created by HFTP and the HFTP HDPO Task Force, are immediately available to help organizations successfully navigate how to implement the necessary changes, and reduce the risk of non-compliance."GDPR Bytes allows companies to publish their content to the site; registered users receive the additional benefit of having their content published to both GDPR Bytes as well as PineappleSearch.com, the world's only hospitality-specific search engine. For those interested in publishing content or advertising on GDPR Bytes, please contact HFTP Chief Marketing Officer Jennifer Lee, CAE at jennifer.lee@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4023.For more information, visit www.hftp.org and https://gdpr.hftp.org. View HFTP's other information-specific news sites: HFTP News; HITEC Bytes; HFTP Club Bytes; HFTP Finance Bytes.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.##END##

OpenTravel Alliance (OpenTravel), the travel industry's only distribution specification standards development organization covering multiple segments, recently elected Buddy Altus, vice president of distribution at Avis Budget Group, as the vice-chairman of its board of directors. Altus most recently served as a board member representing the rental car category. OpenTravel's board of directors has a mission to help the association enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers around the world."I am looking forward to continuing Avis Budget Group's leadership role with OpenTravel Alliance," said Altus. "As a founding member, we hold the association in high regard and are proud that our participation has benefited the industry, the association's members and especially customers. It is an exciting time in travel with so much change occurring in the mobility space. We will continue our contribution to the travel API ecosystem as OpenTravel leads the industry in developing and exposing services as part of the API economy - making it even faster and easier for partners to contact and improve the entire customer journey."Altus' responsibilities include managing product development and business from third party e-commerce applications and services, including: ABG's XML interface; private label booking engines used by airlines; corporate accounts; travel agencies; ABG mobile sites; and global distribution systems. His experience prior to Avis Budget Group includes e-commerce companies in music, content protection and group buying. Additionally, Altus spent 10 years at American Express where he was part of the team that developed AXI, American Express' first corporate booking tool. Before he moved to travel and e-commerce he developed programming language software at Intermetric."We are thrilled for Buddy to serve as vice-chair of OpenTravel, succeeding Susanne Auinger who has recently been elected as chairperson of the board," said Mike Tinkey, CEO at OpenTravel. "Buddy brings the rental car perspective along with distribution experience in interoperability with air, lodging and rental car utilizing OpenTravel standards. He is a visionary, innovative, collaborative and disciplined leader who assists the board with strategic and practical applications of OpenTravel standards globally with a rental car focus."For more information about OpenTravel Alliance, please contact Jessica Blankenship at media@opentravel.org or visit http://opentravel.org.About OpenTravel AllianceOpenTravel Alliance is passionate about solving the problems inherent with connecting multiple systems within the complex travel distribution arena. Our mission is to enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers. OpenTravel Alliance creates, expands and drives adoption of open specifications, including but not limited to the use of XML, for the electronic exchange of business information among all sectors of the travel industry.OpenTravel Alliance is comprised of companies representing airlines, car rental firms, hotels, cruise lines, railways, leisure suppliers, service providers, tour operators, travel agencies, solutions providers, technology companies and distributors. Tens of thousands of OpenTravel Alliance message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between trading partners every day.OpenTravel Alliance is a not-for-profit trade association, founded in 1999 by travel companies, with a primary focus on the creation of electronic message structures to facilitate communication between the disparate systems in the global travel industry. For more information on OpenTravel Alliance membership, new products, or projects, please visit http://www.opentravel.org or email media@opentravel.org.

Travel association OpenTravel Alliance (OpenTravel) recently elected Susanne Auinger, senior advisor of partner management at DB Systel GmbH, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn AG, as chairperson for its board of directors. Auinger most recently served as vice chair on the OpenTravel board."I am grateful to be given the trust and opportunity by OpenTravel's board members to co-create and advance our future strategy of even stronger cooperation, extended interacting with standardization organizations and new verticals," said Auinger. "I am excited to work hand-in-hand with our board, staff, members and partners to exchange ideas, gain synergies and serve and support existing as well as new travel verticals. Today, the travel industry is experiencing substantial changes driven by the costumers' demand who expect enhanced travel experience and end-to-end services primarily driven by mobile technology."OpenTravel's board of directors has a mission to help the association enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers around the world. Open Travel is the source for the most adopted, cross-industry technology standards that enable business solutions driven by the travel community."As an open alliance of the different travel verticals, OpenTravel is convinced that speed, efficiency/ease interconnecting and interacting between the industries are critical assets to meet the demands of this disruptive market as well as provide transactional success," said Auinger. "Our mission is to create, improve and deliver best of class models and tools to enable companies to meet the demanding technical challenges of API economy and semantic search as well as the aspect of new business models and partnership opportunities."Auinger also serves at the chairperson for the OpenTravel Forum - Enabling the Future of the Connected Consumer Experience - that will be co-located with HITEC Amsterdam, produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), from April 11-13, 2018 at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands."We are all excited that Susanne will be serving as a chairperson on OpenTravel's board as she brings a European perspective, experience and perspective to the table," said Mike Tinkey, CEO at OpenTravel. "She is a visionary collaborative leader, and is focused on the seamless customer experience solutions in her professional projects across Europe that are rail-focused and incorporate OpenTravel Standards."For more information about OpenTravel Alliance, please contact Jessica Blankenship at media@opentravel.org or visit http://opentravel.org.About OpenTravel AllianceOpenTravel Alliance is passionate about solving the problems inherent with connecting multiple systems within the complex travel distribution arena. Our mission is to enable the future of travel by driving the evolving digital experience for consumers. OpenTravel Alliance creates, expands and drives adoption of open specifications, including but not limited to the use of XML, for the electronic exchange of business information among all sectors of the travel industry.OpenTravel Alliance is comprised of companies representing airlines, car rental firms, hotels, cruise lines, railways, leisure suppliers, service providers, tour operators, travel agencies, solutions providers, technology companies and distributors. Tens of thousands of OpenTravel Alliance message structures are in use, carrying tens of millions of messages between trading partners every day.OpenTravel Alliance is a not-for-profit trade association, founded in 1999 by travel companies, with a primary focus on the creation of electronic message structures to facilitate communication between the disparate systems in the global travel industry. For more information on OpenTravel Alliance membership, new products, or projects, please visit http://www.opentravel.org or email info@opentravel.org.

Back by popular demand, international nonprofit Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is proud to host its innovation pitch competition, Entrepreneur 20X (E20X), at the world's largest hospitality technology exposition in 2018. HFTP is currently accepting applications online from hospitality startups who wish to compete in E20X at HITEC Houston this June. Past applicants and winners are welcome to re-apply as long as they are still considered Series A or a startup.E20X came to be at HITEC Austin in 2015, and since has expanded internationally at HITEC Amsterdam. HITEC Houston E20X participants will compete for a grand prize of $5,000.00 USD, and guaranteed the opportunity to be promoted as the winner to the industry. The selected entrepreneurs will present their breakthrough business concepts to an expert judge's panel as well as a room of industry experts including: hospitality CIOs, angel investors, serial entrepreneurs, industry insiders and more. All HITEC Houston registrants are invited to attend the competition, and are encouraged to vote for their favorite startup following the competition - these votes will determine the E20X People's Startup Award winner."Budding hospitality entrepreneurs will have a chance to make their dreams come true," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP - the producers of HITEC. "Last year's HITEC Toronto featured the largest conference attendance to date, with numbers growing as the conference gains popularity each year. E20X is a great platform for startups to get industry exposure, and showcase their products and/or services to a network of global professionals."Previous E20X award recipients include: Whistle Inc. (Judge's Winner 2015); Triptease (Best Pitch 2015); Loop & Tie (Best Investment 2015); Hello Scout Inc. (Judge's Winner 2016); Daylighted (People's Winner 2016); Hyre (Judge's and People's Winner 2017); Stay Wanderful (Judge's Winner 2017); Arrivedo (People's Winner 2017). YouTube videos of previous E20X pitches and competitions are available. Exclusive interviews from former E20X winners are available on the HFTP Connect blog as well as PineappleSearch.com."Whistle as a business has evolved tremendously since HITEC," said Christopher Hovanessian, co-founder and president of Whistle - E20X Judge's Award winner at E20X 2015. "Whistle was able to make some great connections at HITEC, including great new clients, partners and key industry specialists. [E20X] is a great opportunity to gain tons of exposure and reassure that your start-up is headed in the right direction."HFTP will produce three HITEC events in 2018. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from April 11-13 at the RAI Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands - applications are also open for E20X Amsterdam. The largest HITEC Houston will take place from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA. HITEC Dubai will return in the fall of 2018. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherland and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or visit the media center. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.###END###

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), producers of the world's largest Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), has announced that attendee registration for its HITEC Houston is now available online as well as hotel reservations. Selected by HFTP leadership for their experience and expertise, the HITEC Houston Advisory Council will determine event's education program. HITEC Houston will be the second, and largest, HITEC event of 2018, and will take place from June 18-21 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas USA."The selection process for HFTP's HITEC Advisory Council's is highly competitive, and the group chosen for HITEC Houston is truly outstanding," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Each individual serving on the HITEC Houston Advisory Council brings an established record of achievement, and a proven commitment to the hospitality technology sector. The combination of extensive industry experience from these individuals will result in an incomparable event program for HITEC Houston attendees."In traditional manner, HITEC Houston Advisory Council met to plan the upcoming conference's educational program. Sessions planned by the group will address the issues of top concern to the hospitality technology field. The 2018 HITEC Houston Advisory Council includes:Chairman James Bina, CHAE, CHTP, corporate controller, Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Inc.Katerina Berezina, CHTP, assistant professor, University of South FloridaMichael Blake, CEO, Hotel Technology Next Generation (HTNG)Carson Booth, CHTP, startup technology consultantAmitava Chatterjee, director, Deloitte DigitalMichael Duffy, CHTP, director of technology, Seaport CompaniesJai Govindani, chief technology officer, Red Planet HotelsDonna Hale, vice president of technology, Evans HotelsTed Horner, managing director, E Horner & Associates PtyDanny Hudson, VP Business Solutions & IT Strategy, Wyndham Hotel GroupLaurent Idrac, group CIO, Accor HotelsUmmara Marshall, director POS, POS MarriottShannon McCallum, executive director of hotel operations, ARIA Las VegasWendy Mertz, VP of IT applications and strategy, Hard Rock InternationalJeffrey Parker, vice president of hospitality systems, Red Lion HotelsNeal Patel, CHIA, CHO, managing partner, Blue Chip HotelsHenri Roelings, founder and CEO, HsyndicatePrakash Shukla, managing partner, Wayfare VcRichard Siegel, president and publisher, Hospitality UpgradeJason Smith, vice president of communications, HSMAIMartin Stanton, vice president of financial information systems, Two Roads HospitalityMichael Tinkey, CEO, OpenTravel AllianceAndy Tjan, CHTP, director of technology and innovation, Rosewood Hotels & ResortsRichard Tudgay, senior vice president of IT, Highgate HotelsLyle Worthington, CHTP, CIO, The Student HotelIn addition to HITEC Houston, in 2018 HFTP will bring back its two, regional conferences: HITEC Amsterdam and HITEC Dubai. HITEC Amsterdam will take place from April 11-13 at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. HITEC Dubai will take place in the fall. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherland and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or visit the media center. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.###END###

Discover example job description templates produced by international nonprofit Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and the HFTP Americas Research Center. The organizations compiled information into standardized descriptions for accounting and IT positions in the lodging industry, as well as descriptions for accounting positions in clubs. Available now via the HFTP website as well as its hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com.The HFTP Hotel Finance Advisory Council and HFTP Club Advisory Council provided guidance for the development of the accounting job descriptions. A combined total of 25 job descriptions are available now with verified text for positions including, but not limited to: accounts payable/receivable manager; controller; staff accountant; director/VP of finance; internal auditor; CFO; IT director; CIO; IT security analyst; and more."A time-saving resource for HR professionals, hiring managers or any industry staff member responsible an organization's written communication," said Frank Wolfe, HFTP CEO. "With combined insights from trusted industry veterans and specialists, the text used in the descriptions is efficient and up-to-date with today's standards. HFTP will continue to produce beneficial resources for our industry in 2018."Click here to discover more educational resources available. Read the full blog on "How to Write a Good Job Description" by visiting HFTP Connect. For HFTP career center questions, contact HFTP Membership Retention Manager Fritz Johnson at fritz.johnson@hftp.org or +1 (512) 220-4019.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.##END##

Focused on continually improving ways to communicate and engage with its members and stakeholders, international nonprofit Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Forrester Research have just released an extensive global research project that will provide guidance on the state of the industry; provide existing industry stakeholders with additional resources, and enrich the association's understanding of financial and technology trends that will shape the industry's future. HFTP is seeking participation from professionals working in and around the hospitality finance and technology sector, with the survey taking approximately 10 minutes for respondents to complete the survey."HFTP has just celebrated its 65th anniversary as a not for profit association, and our leadership intends to offer this foundation and provide a platform for the industry to build upon," said Frank Wolfe, HFTP CEO. "HFTP is in a decisive position where it seeks to develop the resources and benefits that best serve the current and future industry. HFTP continues to hear from its stakeholders that as the steward of finance and technology in hospitality, there is an opportunity to optimize the resources being provided to the industry."The survey measures the value that stakeholders are receiving from the industry today and seek feedback on areas of professional development, research and resources that are unfulfilled within the hospitality finance and technology arena."Participation from a large sample of HFTP's stakeholders in this survey is imperative to help the association draw a representative picture of industry professionals," said Wolfe. "HFTP, a nonprofit association, serves to provide resources that benefit the industry, and survey responses are going to guide the association to serve those needs."Upon the completion of the survey, a complete analysis of the data will be completed by Forrester's expert consultants. These will serve as guidance for the HFTP Global Board to make key strategic decisions for the association. Forrester is one of the most influential research and advisory firms in the world. Through proprietary research, data, custom consulting, exclusive executive peer groups, and events, the Forrester experience is about a singular and powerful purpose: to challenge the thinking of its clients to help them lead change in their organizations.If you have any questions or concerns regarding the survey, contact HFTP Executive Services Administrator Millicent Gustafson (Millicent.Gustafson@hftp.org) for more information. HFTP and Forrester appreciate your time and participation in this important research. For the latest news, follow HFTP on HFTP News, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom, The Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.

Co-produced by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and Naseba, more than 600 hospitality technology professionals came together for the inaugural HITEC Dubai. The event served as a regional, Middle Eastern counterpart to HFTP's 45-year-old Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) - the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC Dubai served as HFTP's third HITEC of the year, and took place from November 14-15, 2017 at the Conrad Dubai in Dubai, UAE.The inaugural conference featured 600+ hospitality stakeholders, 40+ solution and service providers and 30+ industry expert speakers. Modeling the HITEC Amsterdam format, the show offered an education program, exhibits and networking. Unique to HITEC Dubai was a summit with one-to-one business meetings between pre-qualified hoteliers and cutting-edge technology providers. Planned by the HITEC Dubai Advisory Council, featuring industry experts with 200+ years of combined experience, the education program included topics such as: PMS; SaaS; robots; smart rooms; cyber-security; travel technology; blockchain; and much more."It was important for HFTP to expand the HITEC brand into the Middle Eastern market to advance hospitality finance and technology in the region" said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "HFTP continues to receive requests to bring both our educational resources and expand our network of volunteer experts to other regions of the world. HITEC Dubai's success is a notable example of the industry's desire for and support of our efforts."HITEC Dubai 2018 demand is already so strong that it has outgrown its initial venue. Planning for a new venue is underway and both venue and dates will be announced soon. Like other HITEC events, priority for participation will be given first to those who participated in HITEC Dubai before others are added."We were very excited to have HITEC based here in Dubai, United Arab Emirates for the first time," said HITEC Dubai Advisory Chairman Marwan Al Ali, group CIO at Jumeirah Group - one of the largest hospitality groups in the Middle East. "HITEC, over the last few decades, has developed a very strong reputation when it comes to hotel technology. HITEC plays an important role in connecting people across the industry, and bring[s] the latest trends in technology to the audience attending HITEC."Upcoming in 2018, HITEC Amsterdam will take place from April 11-13 in addition to the larger HITEC Houston from June 18-21 and HITEC Dubai in late 2018. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec. For more information about HITEC Dubai, visit www.hitec-dubai.com or download the comprehensive HITEC 2017 multi-event mobile app from the iTunes Apple Store and Google Play.About HITEC HITEC is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.HITEC is a well-known, global event with its North American show gathering over 6,000 attendees, from around the world, and presenting the latest hospitality technology products and services from over 400 companies - this trade show is the world's largest, most comprehensive showcase of hospitality technology. Each year the HITEC Advisory Council identifies the top technology issues/trends of interest in our industry. The selected topics serve as the framework for the HITEC education program. In 2017, HITEC expanded internationally into Europe and Asia.For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other global activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec. Download the HFTP/HITEC media kit via the HFTP website.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and the Netherlands. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and HSMAI Region Europe are pleased to extend their partnership and co-locate European conferences again in April 2018. HSMAI Region Europe will co-locate its Revenue Optimization Conference (ROC) and its Digital and Distribution Optimization Conference (DOC) with HFTP's HITEC Amsterdam. HSMAI Region Europe's Annual ROC and DOC conferences will take place 10-11 April 2018 at Hotel Novotel Amsterdam City, while HITEC Amsterdam will take place from 11-13 April 2018 at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre.HFTP's HITEC is an all-encompassing vehicle that showcases the most innovative hospitality technology products and services to the global industry, and provides attendees with an unrivaled one-stop access to education, networking and more. HSMAI Region Europe's ROC and DOC are Europe's number one place for the latest trends and news in revenue optimization, digital marketing and distribution for the travel, hospitality and event industry."Co-locating HITEC Amsterdam with HSMAI's ROC and DOC conferences will provide a collaborative environment for enhanced networking, education and business exchanges among attendees," said Frank Wolfe, CEO at HFTP. "This partnership is an example of HFTP's strategic plan to add value for our members and industry professionals in the European region as the association continues to expand internationally.""HFTP has significant hospitality event expertise as well as a large network of regional industry experts," said Ingunn Hofseth, president and CEO at HSMAI Region Europe. "Joining forces will bring together experts across all spectrums of the hospitality market, and we are excited to provide an enhanced professional platform for attendees in Amsterdam this April."HFTP and HSMAI Region Europe are recognized as global leaders in the hospitality industry. Both organizations provide hospitality professionals with access to world class educational opportunities, research, networking and solutions to industry problems.For more information about HSMAI Region Europe, please contact Benedicte Bogh at bgb@hsmai.no or +47 916 52 873. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.HITEC Amsterdam is the first of three HITEC events planned by HFTP for 2018, and will take place from 11-13 April 2018 - online registration is open now on the event website. The larger HITEC Houston will take place from 18-21 June 2018. HITEC Dubai will return in late 2018.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and the Netherlands. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.About HSMAI Region Europe HSMAI - Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International - is a global organization founded in the US in 1927. The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Region Europe is the European arm of the organisation. HSMAI Region Europe is committed to growing business for the hotel, event and travel industry and their partners, and is the industry's leading advocate for intelligent, sustainable revenue growth on a local, national and European level. The association provides practical tools, insights, and cutting edge expertise to enable knowledge sharing and enhance professional development as well as fuel sales, inspire marketing, transform businesses digitally and optimise revenue. Please visit us at: hsmai.eu

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) is currently accepting applications from startups to compete in the European version of Entrepreneur 20X (E20X) at its upcoming HITEC Amsterdam. Hospitality technology startups can apply via the event website - past applicants and winners are welcome to reapply as long as they are still considered Series A or a startup. The E20X competition will be open to all HITEC Amsterdam registrants, and take place on 11 April 2018 at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.E20X serves as a platform for entrepreneurs to present their breakthrough business concepts to a room of industry experts including: hospitality CIOs, angel investors, serial entrepreneurs, industry insiders and more. Participants will compete for a grand prize of EUR2,500 EUR, and a guaranteed opportunity to be promoted as the champion to the industry. The E20X Judge's Award winner, determined by the expert judge panel, receives the grand prize while the People's Startup Award winner, determined by HITEC Amsterdam attendees, receives the crowd favorite vote. Attendees are encouraged to visit with company representatives, following the competition, and vote for their favorite startup."E20X was [a] very valuable [experience]," said Eropa Stein, CEO at Hyre and 2017 HITEC Amsterdam E20X dual award winner. "It is rare to get the attention of so many industry professionals and decision makers at once. I think that for me, participating in the competition helped establish myself as an expert in hospitality staffing. For Hyre, HITEC helped us expand our professional network and create long lasting relationships."Watch videos from previous E20X competitions by visiting the HFTP/HITEC YouTube channel. Read exclusive interviews from former E20X grand prize winners by visiting HFTP's official blog, HFTP Connect.HITEC Amsterdam is the first of three HITEC events planned for 2018, and will take place from 11-13 April 2018 - online registration is open now on the event website. The larger HITEC Houston will take place from 18-21 June 2018. HITEC Dubai will return in the fall of 2018. For more information about HITEC and HFTP's other international activities, contact the HFTP Meetings & Special Events Department at education@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org and www.hftp.org/hitec.About HITEC Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition & Conference (HITEC) is the world's largest and oldest hospitality technology exposition and conference brand. HITEC offers a unique combination of top-notch education, and brings together the brightest minds and hottest technologies from across the globe to one place. The unparalleled event offers attendees essential education, access to top hospitality technology industry experts and the resources to find cost-effective ways to improve company bottom lines. Combined with the intimate opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, HITEC has everything to enhance your career.Historically hosted annually in a different city throughout the United States, HFTP decided to break tradition in 2017 by hosting three HITEC events all taking place outside of U.S. borders- in Toronto, Amsterdam and Dubai. This was the first time the global association's largest HITEC event - featuring thousands of hospitality professionals from around the world -took place outside of the United States. About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and the Netherlands. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit. Follow HFTP/HITEC on HFTP Connect, Facebook (@HFTPGlobal; @HITECconference), LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (@HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube for the latest news. Stay tuned to HFTP's industry-specific, informational news sites: HFTP News, HITEC Bytes, HFTP Club Bytes and HFTP Finance Bytes.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) offers two certification programs that are globally recognized for setting industry standards for hospitality finance and technology professionals: Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP). These certification programs have been named a requirement for information technology and accounting employees at Rosewood Hotel Group, Two Roads Hospitality and Accorhotels Group - which operate Fairmont branded hotels.Accorhotels Group recently followed suit with Rosewood and Two Roads Hospitality by not only having their employees become a member of HFTP, but also requiring their group to become CHAE certified. In 2016, Rosewood Hotel Group set the requirement for its information technology staff to become CHTP certified - this was the first group certification HFTP coordinated."Hospitality professionals recognize the importance of committing to continuing education in order to comply with evolving industry practices," said HFTP CEO Frank Wolfe. "Group certification allows organizations to match industry experience with essential hospitality knowledge. Hospitality certification helps professionals elevate their knowledge and career path, leading to higher salaries and increased job opportunities."HFTP offers the only designations for finance and technology professionals who are working in the hospitality industry. Both the CHAE and CHTP designations require professionals to sit for an initial competency exam, and complete continuing education credits for each renewal cycle. Qualification for the exams is based on level of education and experience in the industry; student programs are also available.For more information about HFTP's certification programs, contact HFTP Certification Manager Robin Bogdon at robin.bogdon@hftp.org or visit www.hftp.org. For immediate information, visit the FAQ pages for both CHTP and CHAE certifications. For the latest news, follow HFTP on HFTP News, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter (@HFTP), Instagram (HFTP_HITEC), Flickr and YouTube.About HFTP Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) established in 1952, is an international, nonprofit association, headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA, with offices in Hong Kong, United Kingdom and the Netherlands. HFTP is recognized as the spokes group for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with members and stakeholders spanning across the globe. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. It does this via its expert networks, research, certification programs, information resources and conferences/events such as HITEC. HFTP also owns the world's only hospitality-specific search engine, PineappleSearch.com. For more information about HFTP, email membership@hftp.org or download the HFTP/HITEC media kit via the HFTP website. Read industry updates on the suite of HFTP hospitality news sites: HITEC Bytes, Club Bytes, Finance Bytes and HFTP News.