Rogers out as AHLA leader

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) announced on Tuesday that William “Chip” Rogers resigned from his position as AHLA president and CEO last Friday to pursue other professional interests. The AHLA Board of Directors is in the process of forming a committee to identify and evaluate potential replacement candidates and will be retaining an executive search firm.

Effective immediately, AHLA senior executive vice president and COO Kevin Carey will also serve as AHLA’s interim president and CEO. He will report directly to the Board until a permanent president and CEO is selected and onboarded.

“We have been able to build one of America’s most effective associations over the last five years. As I move on to my next chapter, I am truly thankful for the opportunity I had to lead this incredible team and work alongside the industry’s best leaders,” said Rogers.

On his LinkedIn account on Wednesday morning, Rogers wrote, "Together, we achieved countless legislative victories! We survived a pandemic, launched a global campaign to stop human trafficking, and opened the largest first year trade show in the history of our industry... The last couple years have taken a toll on me, with more than 450 nights on the road. Now, it’s time for a break. I'm leaving the American Hotel & Lodging Association, but I know I'll see you all soon!"

AHLA Board Chair Kevin Jacobs stated, “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Chip for his service to AHLA. We now begin a search for a new CEO to lead AHLA during this exciting time for both our industry and our association. The board and I look forward to working with the next CEO to advance our mission well into the future.”

Carey has served as AHLA’s COO since 2017. He has led numerous key AHLA initiatives that have helped accelerate the association’s growth and expansion. These efforts include the association’s strategic plan development, dues model changes, and a nearly 60% increase in revenue through membership growth, mergers, and strategic partnerships. Prior to joining AHLA, Carey spent more than 25 years with American Express, where he led key global business groups across the company. 

“As we begin our search for a permanent AHLA president & CEO, the association is in capable hands,” Jacobs said. “Kevin’s deep knowledge of AHLA’s operations and his relationships with hospitality stakeholders throughout the industry make him the right leader for AHLA during this transition. The board of directors and I look forward to working with Kevin as AHLA continues to deliver highly effective advocacy, communications and member services for the industry.”

“I want to thank the board for the opportunity to serve AHLA during this important time,” Carey said. “I look forward to working with my team members to continue doing what AHLA does best: serving members and achieving responsible public policy outcomes for hoteliers that advance this outstanding industry.”