Curtis J. Crider named president & CEO of the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association

MIAMI, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association (GMBHA) has named Curtis J. Crider as its new president & CEO, effective May 2025.

"Curtis's extensive background in hospitality leadership and his thoughtful, strategic vision for the future of our industry made him the clear choice for this role," said GMBHA Chairman and Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau board member Amir Blattner. "We are confident he will promote the interests of our Allied members and support our vibrant hotel industry."

"I look forward to working with the strong GMBHA team and all of our allies and partners connected to Miami-Dade County's number one economic engine as we lead the hotel industry forward," said Crider.

Crider has dedicated more than three decades to shaping the region's luxury service, food & beverage, and hospitality industries. He most recently served as chairman, president, and managing director of Jungle Island Resort, where he led all operations and helped launch Joia Beach, Miami's first private beach club and restaurant. His executive leadership drove revenue growth, boosted employee satisfaction, and elevated the brand.

He also developed plans for an 18.6-acre eco-adventure park and hotel, featuring 300 guest rooms, a rooftop restaurant, pool bar, and 14,000 square feet of retail and meeting space.

Previously, Crider spent over 15 years with Sonesta Hotels, serving as general manager of the Sonesta Coconut Grove, a luxury AAA Four Diamond hotel, and resident manager at the Sonesta Beach Resort & Spa in Key Biscayne.

"Miami-Dade County's visitor industry needs to continuously build and strengthen alliances to maximize growth, workforce development, and make the necessary investments to keep service levels high," said Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau President & CEO David Whitaker. "Curtis's leadership will be key to these efforts and help our destination continue on its path of success. I look forward to collaborating with him."

Crider is a Miami resident and holds a degree from St. Petersburg College. He is active in the community, serving on the boards of the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, GMBHA Executive Board, and was vice president of the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce. His accolades include the City of Miami's Community Involvement Award, Business of the Year Award and General Manager of the Year.

About the GMBHA

Established in 1965, the GMBHA is a membership-based organization that represents the hotel and hospitality industry in Miami-Dade County. The GMBHA promotes the interests of its members through advocacy, education and partnerships and advances Greater Miami as the visitor's destination of choice. For more information, please visit: www.gmbha.com.

Media contact:
Faheemah Garzon
Greater Miami and The Beaches Hotel Association
305-531-3553
Email: faheemah@gmbha.com 

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SOURCE Greater Miami and The Beaches Hotel Association