TORONTO — Rob Housez, General Manager, Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, has been awarded the HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International) General Manager of the Year.

The award honours those who make outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry, with a commitment to community service and unwavering dedication to excellence.

HSMAI’s inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala took place recently at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel.

Housezʻ 40+ year career in the hospitality industry spans senior management roles with renowned international hotel and resort brands including Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the InterContinental Hotels Group, Delta Hotels and Resorts, and currently, the Langham Hospitality Group.

Since 2015, Housez has served as GM of the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, a member of the Langham Hospitality Group, where he has played a pivotal role in driving financial performance at Canada’s largest hotel by guest room count.

Housez takes an active role in the success of the sales, marketing, and revenue teams at the Chelsea Hotel, in keeping with hands-on and engaged leadership style. Team members note that his ability to foster a culture of excellence has led to significant financial and operational achievements, further cementing the hotelʻs reputation within the industry.

Housezʻ involvement in the industry has also included …

• Executive Board Member of the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA) since 2008, serving as Chairman of the Board from 2012 to 2014
• Board Member of Destination Toronto since 2012, holding the positions of Vice-Chair (2017/18) and Chair (2018/19)
• Executive Board Member of the Downtown Yonge BIA since 2015
• Executive Board Member of SKAL International Toronto North Club since 2008, serving as President from 2009 to 2010

Says his team at Chelsea Hotel, Toronto: “Rob has built his career around the principles of kindness, generosity, and community engagement. His dedication to philanthropy is evident in his long-standing commitment to the SickKids Foundation. Under Rob’s direction, the Chelsea Hotel has donated nearly $1.5 million to SickKids since 2013, with ongoing fundraising efforts extending into 2025. This significant contribution exemplifies his passion for giving back and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”