William “Chip” Rogers has resigned from his position as President and CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), the association announced on Tuesday.
AHLA reported that Rogers is departing the association to pursue other professional interests.
“We have been able to build one of America’s most effective associations over the last five years,” said Rogers.
“As I move on to my next chapter, I am truly thankful for the opportunity I had to lead this incredible team and work alongside the industry’s best leaders.”
AHLA Senior Executive Vice President and COO Kevin Carey will also serve as AHLA’s interim president and CEO, effective immediately, while the search for Rogers’ replacement gets underway.
In a LinkedIn post on Tuesday evening, Rogers quoted John F. Kennedy, saying, “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future”.
“The last 5 years of my life have been amazing,” Rogers wrote.
“Thank you to the incredible industry leaders and thousands of hoteliers I’ve met. Your stories are the inspiration for what we’ve built together. The friendships I’ve made are life’s true currency.
“Thank you to my AHLA colleagues who always made me look better than I am. You are the best Association team in Washington D.C. and now operating at the highest level.
“Together, we achieved countless legislative victories! We survived a pandemic, launched a global campaign to stop human trafficking, and opened the largest first year trade show in the history of our industry.
“The last couple years have taken a toll on me, with more than 450 nights on the road. Now, it’s time for a break. I’m leaving the American Hotel & Lodging Association, but I know I’ll see you all soon!”
AHLA Board Chair, Kevin Jacobs, thanked Rogers for his service to the association.
“We now begin a search for a new CEO to lead AHLA during this exciting time for both our industry and our association,” Jacobs said in a statement.
“The board and I look forward to working with the next CEO to advance our mission well into the future.”
AHLA said more information regarding the open president and CEO position will be available in the coming weeks.