This prestigious honor recognizes Gilbert’s transformative impact on the global meetings, conventions, exhibitions, and travel industry. He will be celebrated posthumously at the EIC Global Awards Celebration on October 6, 2025, in Las Vegas.
Bob Gilbert’s visionary leadership fundamentally reshaped both HSMAI and the broader hospitality and MICE sectors. Under his guidance, HSMAI evolved from a primarily U.S.-focused organization into a global association. Today, it unites professionals across sales, marketing, and revenue management worldwide. In 2002, Gilbert established HSMAI Global, expanding the association’s footprint across Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. This expansion fostered a vibrant international community dedicated to elevating professional standards and commercial excellence.