The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has unveiled its new Board of Directors leadership team for 2026–2027, signaling a new chapter for the U.S. hospitality industry. Effective July 1, 2026, hospitality veteran Thom Geshay will assume the role of Board Chair, bringing decades of leadership experience and industry expertise to one of the sector’s most influential organizations.
Joining Geshay on the leadership team are Jon Stanner, who has been appointed Vice Chair, and Jolyon Bulley, who will serve as Secretary/Treasurer. Together, the trio will help guide AHLA’s efforts to address workforce challenges, strengthen advocacy initiatives, and support sustainable growth across the lodging industry.
Thom Geshay Appointed as AHLA Board Chair
Thom Geshay succeeds Liam Brown, who is retiring from Marriott International after an impressive career spanning nearly four decades. As President and Chief Executive Officer of Davidson Hospitality Group, Geshay brings extensive experience across multiple areas of hotel operations and management.
Over the course of his hospitality career, Geshay has held leadership positions in business development, acquisitions, operations, food and beverage management, sales and marketing, and corporate strategy. Before becoming CEO of Davidson Hospitality Group, he served as both President and Chief Operating Officer, helping shape the company’s growth and operational success.
His appointment reflects AHLA’s commitment to placing experienced industry leaders at the forefront of efforts to navigate the evolving hospitality landscape.
AHLA Highlights Importance of New Leadership Team
Rosanna Maietta, President and Chief Executive Officer of AHLA, emphasized the significance of the newly appointed leadership team and the value they bring to the association’s mission.
According to Maietta, Geshay, Stanner, and Bulley are respected hospitality leaders with proven records of delivering meaningful results. Their leadership will play a critical role in advancing solutions to workforce shortages, stimulating travel demand, and supporting AHLA’s diverse membership base.
As the hospitality industry continues to recover and evolve, strong leadership remains essential for addressing operational challenges and identifying new growth opportunities.
Geshay Reflects on His Hospitality Journey
Accepting the role of Board Chair, Geshay expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Liam Brown, while acknowledging the responsibility that comes with leading the association during a transformative period for the industry.
He praised Brown’s contributions and highlighted their longstanding professional relationship, noting that Brown’s leadership has helped position AHLA for continued success.
Geshay also reflected on his personal hospitality journey, which began as a bellman and gradually expanded through hands-on experience in nearly every facet of hotel operations, management, and real estate. His career path serves as an example of the opportunities available within the hospitality industry and reinforces his understanding of the challenges faced by employees and operators alike.
Jon Stanner Named Vice Chair
Jon Stanner, President and Chief Executive Officer of Summit Hotel Properties, has been appointed Vice Chair of AHLA’s Board of Directors.
Since joining Summit Hotel Properties in 2017, Stanner has played a key role in driving the company’s growth strategy and operational performance. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Investment Officer, bringing extensive expertise in finance, investment management, and hotel ownership.
Beyond his AHLA involvement, Stanner also serves on the AC Hotels by Marriott Brand Council and the Hyatt Owners’ Advisory Council, further strengthening his industry credentials and leadership profile.
Jolyon Bulley Takes on Secretary/Treasurer Role
Jolyon Bulley, Chief Executive Officer of the Americas for IHG Hotels & Resorts, will serve as Secretary/Treasurer for the 2026–2027 term.
Bulley oversees performance, profitability, and growth across IHG’s portfolio of 21 brands throughout the Americas, the company’s largest operating region. His extensive international experience and leadership background make him a valuable addition to AHLA’s executive leadership team.
Before becoming CEO for the Americas, Bulley served as Chief Operating Officer, where he worked closely with hotel owners and operators to improve performance and strengthen relationships across franchised and managed properties.
New Members Join the AHLA Board of Directors
In addition to announcing its executive leadership team, AHLA has also welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors.
The newly appointed board members include:
- Michelle Woodley, President of Preferred Travel Group
- Adam Rohman, Head of Americas at Hyatt Hotels Corporation
These appointments further enhance the board’s representation across various segments of the hospitality and lodging industry, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the association’s strategic initiatives.
Key Priorities for AHLA in 2026–2027
With its new leadership team officially in place, AHLA is expected to continue focusing on several critical priorities affecting the hospitality sector.
Among the association’s primary objectives are workforce development, increasing travel demand, strengthening public policy advocacy, and supporting initiatives that promote industry growth and resilience.
AHLA will also continue its nationally recognized efforts to combat human trafficking through awareness programs, training initiatives, and partnerships that help protect vulnerable individuals while strengthening hotel industry safety standards.
As travel continues to evolve and guest expectations shift, AHLA’s leadership team will play a crucial role in ensuring that hotel owners, operators, employees, and travelers are well represented at both state and federal levels.
The Future of the U.S. Hospitality Industry
The appointment of Thom Geshay, Jon Stanner, and Jolyon Bulley marks an important milestone for AHLA and the broader hospitality industry. Their combined experience across hotel operations, ownership, investment, and global brand management positions the association to effectively address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities.
As the lodging sector continues to adapt to changing market conditions, workforce needs, and traveler expectations, AHLA remains committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that support long-term growth and success throughout the hospitality ecosystem.
About AHLA
The American Hotel & Lodging Association is the leading national organization representing all segments of the U.S. lodging industry. Through advocacy, education, research, and industry-wide initiatives, AHLA works to advance the interests of hotel owners, operators, employees, and travelers while supporting the continued growth and sustainability of the hospitality sector.
