CHICAGO—Ronald L. Vlasic, COO, Hostmark Hospitality Group (HHG), has been appointed by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to a two-year term to the United States Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. In this role, Vlasic will work closely with the secretary’s office to develop a strategic plan on strengthening the return of travel in the U.S., while also supporting the hospitality industry.
The board advises the secretary on government policies and programs that affect the U.S. travel and tourism industry. The board also acts as a liaison to the stakeholders represented by the membership, consulting with them on current and emerging issues in the industry to support sustainable growth. Members are senior executives from U.S. companies and organizations in the travel and tourism sectors representing a broad range of products and services.
“The entire travel and tourism industry is facing unprecedented and unpredictable challenges as a result of the pandemic,” said Vlasic. “I’m confident the board will provide critical support and guidance as Congress and the federal government continue to enact measures to mitigate the economic impact.”
As HHG COO, Vlasic oversees and grows the company’s third-party management portfolio of branded and independent hotels across the U.S., helping the company expand into new markets and segments. Prior to HHG, he was VP of operations at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. With more than 25 years of hospitality experience, Vlasic has been an active member of numerous hotel industry organizations, including chair of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), chair of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association and vice chair of the Choose Chicago Hotel Committee.