Source: ISHC

Chip Conley, a noted industry influencer and thought leader as well as New York Times best selling author, was just named recipient of the 2012 Pioneer Award by the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC). The Pioneer Award recognizes individuals that made an outstanding contribution, achievement and / or improvement in the hospitality industry. Sean Hennessey, Chairman of ISHC, and Bonnie Buckhiester, President, presented the award at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) held recently in Los Angeles.

"I am humbled and filled with gratitude to be honored with this award for what has been a passion for half of my life," stated Chip Conley. "Everything I learned about success was gleaned through my experiences in the hospitality industry – most importantly through the many relationships I've had the privilege to develop with mentors and employees alike. I've been both student and teacher at every turn, with each property, each challenge, and each triumph. I accept this award on behalf of all of the devoted, creative and inspiring people who helped me realize my potential as a hotelier and an author."

At the age of 26 Chip Conley founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality (JDV) and, as CEO for two-dozen years, expanded it into a collection of over 40 award-winning hotels, restaurants and spas – Americas second largest boutique hotel company. The author of several books including The New York Times bestseller, EMOTIONAL EQUATIONS: Simple Truths for Creating Happiness + Success, Chip is the preeminent thought leader at the intersection of psychology and business. He speaks around the world on finding meaning in work and in life and his time-tested techniques and transformational leadership practices have been featured in TIME, The New York Times, USA Today, Fortune and The Wall Street Journal. Chip is a regular blogger on The Huffington Post and his own blog at www.emotionalequations.com. He was named the Most Innovative CEO – and JDV the "2nd Best Place to Work" – in the entire Bay Area by The San Francisco Business Times. Chip received his BA and MBA from Stanford University, and holds an Honorary Doctorate in Psychology from Saybrook University where he is the 2012 Scholar-Practitioner in residence.

The Pioneer Award was established in 1996 and is presented each year at the Americas Lodging Investment Conference. Previous award winners include Katie Taylor, Leland Pillsbury, J.W. Marriott, Christel DeHaan, Bill Kimpton, Jonathan M. Tisch, Michael Leven and Randell A. Smith.

Lori Raleigh
Executive Director
+1-239-436-3915
ISHC