In Brief: Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) has announced its 2026–2027 Global Executive Committee and Board of Directors, signaling upcoming changes in organizational leadership that may influence association priorities and industry advocacy efforts.
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HFTP Global EC and Directors at HFTP’s 2026 Annual Contention in Reno, Nevada – Image Credit HFTP
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) has announced its 2026–2027 HFTP Global Executive Committee and Board of Directors.
The new HFTP Global Board of Directors, comprising of both new and returning members from diverse hospitality sectors, reinforces the association’s commitment to supporting its members with comprehensive insights, resources and educational opportunities. With expertise spanning finance, technology, research and operations, the board is well-equipped to achieve HFTP’s strategic objectives and provide top-tier programs to its global membership. This leadership team is set to drive HFTP’s mission, promote professional growth and elevate industry standards, ensuring continued innovation and excellence in hospitality finance and technology.
Leading the HFTP Global Executive Committee and Board of Directors is Global President Andrew Buwalda, CHAE, Vice President of Hospitality Operations at Freed Corp.
“I’m excited to work alongside our incoming 2026–2027 HFTP Global Board of Directors and Executive Committee,” said Buwalda. “We are fortunate to have a fantastic group of talented and dedicated industry leaders, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together as we continue delivering value to our members and stewarding HFTP’s growth and impact across the hospitality industry.”
HFTP 2026–2027 Global Executive Committee:
- HFTP Global President Andrew Buwalda, CHAE • Vice President of Hospitality Operations • Freed Corp.
- HFTP Global Vice President Barry Thomas, CHTP • SVP of Hospitality Tech, Luxury & Lifestyle • Accor
- HFTP Global Treasurer Ian Millar, CHTP • Senior Lecturer, IT • EHL
- HFTP Global Secretary Tessa Leverett • Controller • Desert Highlands Association
- HFTP Global Immediate Past President James Bina, CHAE+, CHTP+ • Secretary, Treasurer and VP of Finance • Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Inc.
- HFTP Executive Advisor Scot Campbell, CHTP • Principal • Integrated Resort Advisors
HFTP 2026–2027 Global Board of Directors:
- Ajay Aluri, Ph.D. • Founding Director, Nemacolin Hospitality Innovation and Technology Lab • West Virginia University
- Christopher Begley, CHTP • IT Area Manager of Field Services, Operations • Sonesta Hotels
- Mike Blake, MBA, CPA • Vice President, IT • KemperSports
- Arthur Burger, CHAE+ • Principal • Art Burger Consulting
- Jeff Dekruif, CCM, CHAE, PGA Associate • CEO • Financially Astute Clubs
- Sarah Ford, CCM, CHAE • General Manager • The Headliners Club
- Mark Gage, MMBA • Vice President, IT/IS • Tanzerra Resorts
- Michael Goldrich • Founder & Chief Advisor • Vivander Advisors LLC
- Bryan Hammer • VP, IT • Belmond
- Neal Patel, CHIA, CHO • Managing Partner • Blue Chip Hotels
- Kevin Yarnell • Business Solutions Manger, U.S. Commercial • Cisco
For more information on HFTP leadership and leadership opportunities, visit the HFTP Leadership page on HFTP.org.