"HFTP has had roots in the Caribbean since its early days," said Frank Wolfe, CAE, HFTP executive vice president and CEO. "As the association branches out its education programs internationally, it made sense to join with an exceptional organization like CHA to produce this conference in a region where HFTP is well-respected."

"This targeted educational program will allow finance and technology professionals in the Caribbean hotel and tourism sector to focus on more comprehensive professional development that is specific to their field of expertise," said Alec Sanguinetti, director general and CEO, CHA. "Further, it offers those with an interest in these disciplines to expand their professional horizons." 

HFTP, which produces several education programs annually, will use its resources, along with advisement from CHA, to design an agenda that aligns with the interests of Caribbean hospitality industry professionals. Just recently, the organizations sent out an extensive survey to industry professionals asking about potential topics to help the planning committees develop the program. The conference will also feature tabletop exhibits and opportunities to network. 

Also new for HFTP this year is the European Hospitality Technology Educational Conference (powered by HFTP-HITEC), which is slated for mid-February 2007 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. HFTP annually produces the Club and Hotel Controllers Conferences, HITEC, the HFTP Annual Convention & Tradeshow, and the Hospitality Technology Professionals Forum. 

HFTP is offering a variety of sponsorship opportunities at its professional development educational events. Supporting opportunities vary by event and may include, but are not limited to, continental breakfast, beverage breaks, lunch, and/or a networking reception.

Please contact Laura Huffman, HFTP marketing account manager, at 001 (512) 249-5333 ext. 25 or [email protected] for further details about these opportunities.

For more information about the Caribbean Finance Technology Professionals Conference, contact Linnet Hosek, HFTP meetings and events manager at [email protected] or (800) 646-4387 or 001 (512) 249-5333 ext. 31.

Caribbean Hotel Association
CHA was founded in 1962, and is the voice of the Caribbean hospitality industry for the development of the region in highly competitive and sophisticated environment of international tourism. Today, tourism is widely recognized as a pivotal industry in the economy of the region. CHA represents all facets of the hospitality industry with more than 1000 member hotels and 750 allied members.

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (www.hftp.org)
Based in Austin, Texas, HFTP is the professional association for financial and technology personnel working in hotels, resorts, clubs, casinos, restaurants, and other hospitality-related businesses. The association provides continuing education and networking opportunities to more than 4,500 members around the world, and produces the premiere hospitality technology show, HITEC. HFTP also administers the examination and awards the certification for the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) designations. HFTP was founded in 1952 as the National Association of Hotel Accountants.

Eliza R. Selig
Director of Communications
(800) 646-4387
001 (512) 249-5333 x23
Fax: 001 (512) 249-1533
www.hftp.org