In Brief: Dana-Marisa Licsandru of Alvarez and Marsal Corporate Finance has been named the 2026 recipient of the ISHC Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting, underscoring industry efforts to spotlight rising professionals in advisory roles.
The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) has named Dana-Marisa Licsandru of Alvarez & Marsal Corporate Finance as the recipient of the annual Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting. Licsandru, Associate Director at Alvarez & Marsal Corporate Finance, was honored at the ISHC Annual Conference, held September 24-26 at the Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, in Rome, Italy. The award was presented by Sarah Churchill, ISHC member and 2023 Lori Raleigh Award recipient.
Photo from left to right: Andrea Belfanti, ISHC, CEO, Sarah Churchill, ISHC, IA Interior Architects, Director of Client Services – Hospitality Studio, Dana-Marisa Licsandru, Alvarez and Marsal Corporate Finance, Associate Director
As the winner, Licsandru receives a one-year associate membership to ISHC, providing an opportunity to further develop professional relationships and experience all that the Society has to offer through events, education, and networking with leading hospitality consultants from around the globe.
Dana-Marisa Licsandru is an Associate Director in Alvarez & Marsal’s Corporate Finance practice, where she advises hospitality owners, operators, and investors on complex transactions and strategic opportunities across Europe. Through her work, Licsandru has developed extensive experience supporting clients across the hospitality sector, including on high-profile transactions and engagements that require a combination of financial expertise, industry knowledge, and a deep understanding of the needs of owners and investors.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Licsandru is committed to supporting the next generation of hospitality professionals and giving back to the industry. She has been actively involved in mentoring young professionals and contributes to Hospitality Beats Cancer, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact both within and beyond her professional work.
“I’m truly honored to receive the Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting. It is particularly meaningful to be recognized by a community that brings together so many leaders from across the hospitality industry. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved in my career to date, and particularly of what we have built with our Hospitality & Operating Real Estate M&A team at Alvarez & Marsal. I’ve been fortunate to have some exceptional people supporting me along the way, which makes this recognition even more special. I’m excited to be part of the ISHC community and look forward to building relationships across the network and continuing to contribute to an industry I’m very passionate about.” said Licsandru.
“Dana represents the qualities this award was created to recognize: professional excellence, a commitment to continued growth, and a genuine investment in the hospitality industry and the people within it,” said Andrea Belfanti, CEO of ISHC. “Her work across complex transactions and her ability to build trust with clients and colleagues have established her as an emerging leader in hospitality consulting. We are thrilled to recognize Dana’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing the continued impact she will have on our industry.”
“Dana has truly distinguished herself as an emerging leader in hospitality consulting, leading complex transactions and advising owners, operators, and investors across Europe while helping grow Alvarez & Marsal’s hospitality practice,” said Sarah Churchill, ISHC member, 2023 Lori Raleigh Award winner and presenter of the 2026 award. “She’s built a stellar reputation as a ‘safe pair of hands’ on high-profile engagements, which speaks to the trust she has earned from clients and colleagues alike. Add to that her commitment to mentoring young professionals and giving back through Hospitality Beats Cancer, and it’s clear why Dana is so deserving of this recognition.”
The Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting was established in honor of Lori Raleigh, a longtime ISHC member and respected leader in the hospitality consulting industry. The award recognizes an emerging hospitality consultant who demonstrates professional excellence, leadership, and a commitment to the continued advancement of the hospitality industry.
For more information on ISHC Awards, please visit www.ishc.com/awards.