Thank you to all our inspiring speakers, amazing sponsors, and wonderful members for another successful Ascend conference!

On November 6 & 7, we gathered with representatives from 150+ hotels across Alberta for Ascend, the can’t miss event for hotel leaders, owners and investors. Ascend is a chance to connect with peers and discover what’s next for the hospitality industry.

Attendees had the opportunity to gain market intelligence from several hotel industry, political, and real estate experts. The key takeaways included:

Dr. Jody Carrington, Psychologist & Best-Selling Author, shared that every successful team must have the inherent ability to repair and reconnect. Emotional exhaustion, a lack of compassion, and an experience of futility have become common experiences for many teams.

Nicole Nguyen, Senior Vice President of CBRE Hotels Valuation and Advisory Services Group, reported on industry trends, how economic activity is impacting hoteliers, and why investment has changed post-COVID.

Catherine Rothrock, Chief Economist with the Government of Alberta, discussed key economic trends impacting the Alberta context and where government expects the economy to grow in 2024.

Conor Chell, Head of ESG at MLT Aikins LLP, reported on key ESG developments important to the hospitality industry including:

  • Key mandatory legal reporting requirements taking effect in 2024 relating to climate disclosure and hospitality supply chains
  • ESG financial risks and opportunities relating to lending, insurance and hospitality operations
  • Identification of ESG legal risks including greenwashing, shareholder activism and regulatory enforcement

“Meeting with members, AHLA staff, fellow board & Vendors. Such a great venue to host this important and well executed event. Jody Carrington’s opening was a big highlight. Very insightful, funny and right on point with our current social climate.”

– AHLA member

“Your keynote speakers were very relevant, and had information that is usable immediately. Presentations were all excellent and relevant. Networking time was more than adequate.”

– Rusty Noble, Sunrise International DBA INNHotels