HOSPA's chief executive Carl Weldon to join US counterpart

Carl Weldon is stepping down as chief executive of HOSPA to join its US counterpart and strategic partner.

During his 11-year tenure at HOSPA, Weldon has been responsible for growing and broadening what is formally known as the Hospitality Finance, Revenue Management and IT Professionals Association. He joined the body in 2005 when it was called the BAHA (British Association of Hospitality Accountants) and led it through its rebranding in 2011.

Weldon also oversaw the renaming of the BAHA Annual Conference and Exhibition to HOSPACE, which last year attracted 460 delegates.

Chris Upton, chairman of HOSPA, said the association owed Weldon "a great debt" for creating HOSPA and making it relevant for today's needs. "Under his tenure, HOSPA has become a major voice in the industry, its membership has grown significantly, global recognition has been gained; and HOSPACE has become one of the biggest and most successful annual events on the hospitality calendar," he said.

Weldon, who joined the hospitality industry in 1978 at Forte Hotels, added that he looked back on his time at HOSPA with fond memories. "As with many of these things, it's the people who have helped and contributed along the way that make for an enduring success. I will not be going too far away as I will be responsible for maintaining the relationship with HOSPA for HFTP."

During his career, Weldon has also worked for Holiday Inn, Periquito Hotels, Virgin Hotels, Regal Hotel Group and Noble House Group.

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