Joining in January 2023, Wendy Mertz, Chief Information Officer, leads the global strategic technology direction for Virgin Hotel Collection. At Virgin Hotels Collection, she leads the technology team through its digital transformation journey across its two brands, Virgin Hotels and Virgin Limited Edition.

Prior to joining Virgin Hotels, Wendy was the Vice President, Information Technology for non-gaming systems at Seminole Hard Rock Support Services, the IT business partner for the multibillion-dollar global entertainment company that includes hotels, casinos, live music venues, cafes and corporate business units.

She moved into the job after having served for 17 years in various technology positions at Hard Rock International and holding IT leadership positions at Walt Disney Company and Disney Cruise Line. During her tenure at Hard Rock, which has properties in 65 countries, Wendy was responsible for several multimillion-dollar system implementation and conversion projects.

In addition, she developed and implemented Hard Rock’s global technology standards and was a sought out thought leader for the organization. For 2026, Wendy chairs the T100 and serves on the board of American Hotel & Lodging Association.

She was recognized by the Rochester Institute of Technology for her contributions to the hospitality industry and featured as one of Hospitality Upgrade’s Third Annual Technology Rock Stars.

Wendy is panel expert of the Hotel Tech Leadership panel.