In her new position, Ms. Jimenez will oversee all activities of the PRHTA, including administrating and implementing the objectives set forth by the Board of Directors.  She will  also attend to the needs of the 500-membership base of the Association.

"With her experience and solid background on tourism marketing, government policy and administration, we are confident Clarisa will help us take PRHTA to the next level, "stated Alain Tiphaine, President of the Board of Directors of PRHTA.

"I feel privileged to be accepting the challenge of leading the PRHTA.  I am a firm believer in the potential of the tourism industry to become  a much stronger contributor to our Island's economy and the ability of PRHTA and its members to become a greater catalyst in reaching that goal, "commented Jimenez on her appointment.

A seasoned tourism industry professional, Jimenez has developed a profound knowledge of trade and consumer dynamics in the hotel, airline, ground transportation and promotional components of the industry.  Her professional career spans more than 22 years and includes wide-ranging experiences at the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, where she worked for over 14 years.  As the head of the marketing division for more than  seven years, Jimenez was responsible for the revamping of the organization's marketing initiatives in non-traditional markets, developing stateside and international promotional campaigns,  and systematizing strategic sales and niche marketing processes.  Prior to that, she was a regional director responsible for the operation and promotion of Puerto Rico Tourism Company's Western region based in California.  Most recently, Jimenez was the president of Hospitality Marketing and Solutions, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in tourism marketing.

Until her appointment, Clarisa Jimenez served as the chairperson of PRHTA's Marketing Committee.  She is also member of the Puerto Rico Convention Bureau and has been a member of other organizations,  such as the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA), the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).

About PRHTA:
The Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association represents the shared interests of its more than 500 corporate members, including hotels, restaurants, tour companies, suppliers of hospitality goods and services, airlines, cruise lines and educational institutions.  The PRHTA is dedicated to representing, promoting, protecting and informing the Island's hospitality industry.