Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Information

What is CHIEF?

The Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) is CHTA’s premier educational and networking event for Caribbean hospitality and tourism professionals.  It brings together hotel and tourism executives, emerging leaders, suppliers/vendors, and educators to share insights, strategies, and best practices in a collaborative environment.

CHIEF 2025 will be held November 16 – 18 at the Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa in Barbados.

CHIEF is open to professionals across the Caribbean hospitality and tourism industry, including:

  • General Managers and Executive Leadership
  • Middle Management and Department Heads
  • Young Leaders
  • Allied Members and Vendors
  • National Hotel & Tourism Associations
  • Government Tourism Representatives
  • Educators and Students

No.  CHIEF is a business-to-business (B2B) event.  Only qualified individuals within the hospitality and tourism industry may register.

CHIEF 2025 offers an exclusive hotel benefit to CHIEF registered attendees who stay at the host property of US$300 towards your entire stay.  Because the hotel is all-inclusive, we’ve arranged a discounted rate to offset food and beverage that would otherwise be covered during the event.  This benefit is only available to those who book within the CHIEF room block.

Registration

How can I register, and what’s included?

Registration includes:

  • Access to all general sessions, CHIEF Talks, and breakouts
  • Welcome reception and networking events
  • Entry to the Exchange Hub (trade show)
  • Lunch and coffee breaks on full program days

Discounted rates may be available for group registrations with 5 or more registrations.  There are applicable discounts for members in compliance destinations.   Contact events@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com for details.

CHIEF features:

  • General Sessions  – Thought-leadership panels on key industry themes
  • Breakout Sessions – Focused learning on specific tracks (e.g., tech, workforce, marketing, sustainability)
  • CHIEF Talks – Bite-sized, TED-style sessions to spark ideas
  • Exchange Hub – A trade show experience
  • Speed Networking – Fast-paced vendor-buyer matchmaking

Yes. Breakout sessions run concurrently in smaller rooms to allow for focused, customized learning experiences.

Pending – Yes. Speaker proposals can be submitted through the CHIEF website during the open call for speakers. Preference is given to practitioners with relevant case studies or innovative approaches aligned with CHIEF themes.

Exchange Hub (Trade Show)

What is the Exchange Hub?

The Exchange Hub is CHIEF’s version of a trade show. It features product and service providers offering solutions to improve hotel operations, sustainability, technology, and guest experience.

Vendors and service providers must be CHTA Allied Members. Space is limited and allocated based on relevance and value to attendees. Contact CHTA for exhibitor packages.

No, CHIEF emphasizes informal networking. Exhibitors benefit from:

  • Speed Networking Sessions
  • Social Cafés
  • Dedicated networking blocks

Logistics

Will meals be provided?

Yes.  Lunch and coffee breaks are included for registered delegates on full program days.  Special dietary needs should be indicated during registration.

Business casual attire is recommended. Bring a jacket or shawl—conference rooms can be cold.

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi will be available at the venue.

Yes. CHIEF encourages sustainable practices, including digital materials, locally sourced menus, and reduced plastic use.

Post-Event & Follow Up

Will session recordings or presentations be available?

Presentations and speaker resources (when shared) will be made available post-event to registered attendees.

Yes! CHIEF participants can join follow-up webinars, contribute to best practice case studies, and stay connected via CHTA’s member portal.