Education

 

Keynote

The information you need to propel your business forward and fuel innovation.

At Hotec Operations, we believe education is a crucial component to creating a worthwhile and truly beneficial experience for attendees. Most importantly, these sessions provide buyers and suppliers with important insights for a more successful business; however, educational sessions also serve as great conversation starters during networking breaks, receptions and meals to facilitate authentic, quality connections. See below for details on our 2025 sessions.

2025 Sessions

Presented by Jim Knight

Rockstar Operations: Building a Culture of Efficiency, Service, and Success

In this high-energy, interactive keynote, Jim Knight, best-selling author and former Head of Global Training and Development at Hard Rock International, will explore how to build and sustain a culture of efficiency, service, and success in your hotel operations. Using rock and roll as a backdrop, Jim will draw on his 21 years of experience with Hard Rock to reveal real-world strategies for creating a transformative culture that stays relevant in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing landscape. This session will dive into how every department within an organization plays a role in shaping culture and how leaders can implement systemic changes that drive both employee engagement and guest satisfaction. Attendees will leave with actional insights on how to lead their teams to a new level of performance and success, all while fostering a culture that stands the test of time.  

Presented by Jyoti Sarolia, Jason Reader, and Patrick O'Neil

Navigating Labor Shortages: Innovative Solutions for Hoteliers

Labor shortages and rising costs are pressing concerns for the hospitality industry, but many hoteliers are rising to the challenge with creative and effective solutions. In this session, we’ll explore strategies to address labor shortages through smarter hiring practices, employee retention tactics, and automation. We’ll also hear from a panel of buyers and industry experts who are successfully navigating these challenges. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and inspiration to turn these challenges into opportunities for great operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. 

Speakers coming soon!

Human + AI: Unlocking the Future of Hotel Finance Operations

Sponsored by: Veridian

In this panel discussion, we’ll explore how AI agents reduce time by >80% in hotel finance operations and how human expertise remains essential for strategic decision-making. From automating routine tasks like data analysis to leveraging human judgment for complex financial decisions, this session will highlight the key synergies between human and AI roles. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how finance teams can optimize operations, improve efficiency, and drive stronger financial performance by tapping into the unique strengths of both. 

Presented by Peter Twachtman and Quentin Incao

Creating Experiential Spaces That Drive Guest Engagement

In today’s competitive hospitality landscape, guest experience is everything. This dynamic panel brings together visionary hoteliers to explore how to design and activate spaces that go beyond function to create meaningful, memorable guest interactions. From boutique properties to full-scale operations, panelists will share strategies for weaving storytelling, design, and service into immersive on-property experiences. Join Peter Twachtman, CEO of Lark Hospitality, and Quentin Incaco, CEO of Q Hospitality Management, for a deep dive into what it takes to turn your spaces into powerful brand and revenue drivers.  

Presented by Daniel Lesser

U.S. Lodging Industry H1 2025: Navigating Volatility

With the global economy experiencing acute uncertainty, the hotel industry is facing uneven market performance, evolving guest expectations, and rising costs. While this current bout of unpredictability will pass eventually, this presentation will discuss the near and long-term risks and opportunities for the sector.  

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