The Luxury Summit

Christopher leads the business behind Priority Pass, helping deliver Collinson’s vision of enabling leading payment networks, issuers and travel companies to drive customer engagement and value through a world-class travel ecosystem.

With a customer-first approach, Christopher is committed to keeping innovation at the heart of the business, championing solutions that help clients address evolving customer needs and maintain competitive advantage.

Before joining Collinson, Christopher spent 17 years at Coty International, where he held senior marketing and management roles across Europe, Russia, Africa, the Middle East and North America. He worked with globally recognised brands including Calvin Klein, Davidoff, Adidas and Rimmel, building extensive international leadership and commercial expertise. Christopher is also a Board Member of The Collinson Group.

Mark, British-born and New York-based, has lived out of a suitcase for most of his life. He is also a columnist for Bloomberg Luxury and the creator and co-host of Bloomberg’s Travel Genius podcast. And he is an ongoing contributor to Wall Street Journal and New York Times and the author of Bargain Fever: How to Shop in a Discounted World.

A frequent television host and contributor, Mark is a regular guest on NBC’s TODAY show as a travel expert guiding viewers to the best travel and flight deals available to destinations around the world.

Maïté has over 23 years of experience in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry, representing domestic and international tourism destinations, luxury hotels, airlines, cruise lines, restaurants and related hospitality products and services.

Many people claim they’ve “traveled the world,” but for Maïté it is most certainly true, growing up as the daughter of a United Nations diplomat. As part of the Global Travel practice at FINN Partners, Maite brings with her strong relationships across the media, hospitality and tourism sectors, with experience in integrated destination promotion strategies and brand development across sectors outside of tourism.

Over more than three decades at American Express, Audrey has built a reputation as an innovative leader, driving growth through customer-focused products and services, digital innovation and talent development. She currently leads the company's multi-channel consumer travel agency — one of the largest in the world.

As President she’s responsible for delivering premium travel and lifestyle services to Card Members through a global network of more than 6,000 travel advisors, digital travel booking experiences, travel benefits and programs, more than 1,550 airport lounges, supplier partnerships and marketing to premium Card Members.

Audrey serves on the Executive Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and chairs American Express' New York Women's Interest Network. An Honors graduate of Trinity College Dublin, she also completed the Governing for Nonprofit Excellence program at Harvard Business School.

Christopher leads the business behind Priority Pass, helping deliver Collinson’s vision of enabling leading payment networks, issuers and travel companies to drive customer engagement and value through a world-class travel ecosystem.

With a customer-first approach, Christopher is committed to keeping innovation at the heart of the business, championing solutions that help clients address evolving customer needs and maintain competitive advantage.

Before joining Collinson, Christopher spent 17 years at Coty International, where he held senior marketing and management roles across Europe, Russia, Africa, the Middle East and North America. He worked with globally recognised brands including Calvin Klein, Davidoff, Adidas and Rimmel, building extensive international leadership and commercial expertise. Christopher is also a Board Member of The Collinson Group.

GHA is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, with more than 55 brands and 1,000 hotels across 100 countries (including Capella, Anantara, The Leela, Kempinski, Viceroy). GHA helps independent brands compete through collective scale while maintaining their individuality, largely through its award-winning loyalty program, GHA DISCOVERY, with 36 million members worldwide.

Part of GHA’s original team, Kristi helped build the business and global marketing function from the ground up. Today, she drives GHA’s growth agenda, differentiation and product development, strategic partnerships and communications.

Previously with Neiman Marcus Group, Kristi has more than two decades of experience in consumer strategy, loyalty, marketing, luxury and hospitality. She holds a BS from Cornell University and an Executive MBA from NEOMA Business School.

Luisa has more than 25 years of experience in international business development, destination marketing, sports tourism and strategic partnerships.

Mendoza made history as the first tourism executive hired by an NBA team to create and lead a Sports Tourism Development Department at the Brooklyn Nets, pioneering a model that redefined the intersection of professional sports, tourism, destination marketing and economic development.

These experiences inspired the creation of GTSE, which serves as the Official Sports & Tourism Ambassador for the U.S. Travel Association and IPW.

Mendoza is passionate about positioning sports as a catalyst for tourism, economic growth and global connection. Her work focuses on maximizing the legacy of major sporting events while helping emerging and secondary destinations compete on the world stage through strategic partnerships and international market development. Luisa continues to build bridges between sports, tourism and economic development, creating opportunities that strengthen communities, inspire collaboration and connect the world.

One of Washington's most respected association leaders, Freeman has spent nearly three decades shaping policy debates and advancing industry priorities on issues critical to American competitiveness and economic growth.

As the champion of the $3 trillion travel industry supporting 15 million jobs, Freeman leads efforts to strengthen America's competitiveness, modernize the nation's travel system and advance policies that improve the experience of travelers while supporting economic growth and job creation.

Freeman works closely with Congress, the White House and federal agencies to address issues ranging from aviation and border infrastructure to traveler mobility, workforce development and major event readiness. He also guides the association's engagement with industry leaders across the travel ecosystem, including airlines, hotels, destinations, attractions, airports and transportation providers.

Prior to rejoining U.S. Travel, Freeman served as president and CEO of both the Consumer Brands Association and the American Gaming Association, where he built a reputation for modernizing organizations, expanding influence and delivering major policy victories. At AGA, he led one of the industry’s most significant wins: the overturning of the federal ban on sports betting, while tripling membership and doubling revenue.

While serving as COO of U.S. Travel, he spearheaded the successful campaign to pass the bipartisan Travel Promotion Act, creating what is now Brand USA — the nation’s destination marketing organization responsible for promoting the United States to international travelers and strengthening America’s global competitiveness for inbound travel.

Following the September 11 attacks, Freeman led a landmark effort to improve security while reducing friction in the travel experience, convening a blue-ribbon panel chaired by former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. The panel’s recommendations directly informed the creation of TSA PreCheck, one of the most significant traveler experience improvements in modern aviation.

One of Washington's most respected association leaders, Freeman has spent nearly three decades shaping policy debates and advancing industry priorities on issues critical to American competitiveness and economic growth.

As the champion of the $3 trillion travel industry supporting 15 million jobs, Freeman leads efforts to strengthen America's competitiveness, modernize the nation's travel system and advance policies that improve the experience of travelers while supporting economic growth and job creation.

Freeman works closely with Congress, the White House and federal agencies to address issues ranging from aviation and border infrastructure to traveler mobility, workforce development and major event readiness. He also guides the association's engagement with industry leaders across the travel ecosystem, including airlines, hotels, destinations, attractions, airports and transportation providers.

Prior to rejoining U.S. Travel, Freeman served as president and CEO of both the Consumer Brands Association and the American Gaming Association, where he built a reputation for modernizing organizations, expanding influence and delivering major policy victories. At AGA, he led one of the industry’s most significant wins: the overturning of the federal ban on sports betting, while tripling membership and doubling revenue.

While serving as COO of U.S. Travel, he spearheaded the successful campaign to pass the bipartisan Travel Promotion Act, creating what is now Brand USA — the nation’s destination marketing organization responsible for promoting the United States to international travelers and strengthening America’s global competitiveness for inbound travel.

Following the September 11 attacks, Freeman led a landmark effort to improve security while reducing friction in the travel experience, convening a blue-ribbon panel chaired by former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. The panel’s recommendations directly informed the creation of TSA PreCheck, one of the most significant traveler experience improvements in modern aviation.

Julie is an Australian-born, New York-based media strategist specializing in luxury travel and lifestyle—with more than 25 years as a journalist and editor, including with the Financial Times in New York, and as a contributor to The New York Times and other leading publications.

Today, Julie advises a portfolio of leading destination and hotel clients in Australia and New Zealand, including Tasmania; Luxury Lodges of Australia and qualia on the Great Barrier Reef; The Calile Hotel, named to The World’s 50 Best Hotels for three consecutive years; ROKI Collection Queenstown, home to New Zealand’s first and only two-MICHELIN-star restaurant; and Flockhill Lodge, a TIME World’s Greatest Place 2026, and Michelin-rated Castell Son Claret in Mallorca.

Julie brings an insider's perspective on the evolving ultra-luxury traveler: what resonates with them, what influences them and ultimately, where they choose to travel next.

Leona leads the company's North American business and growth strategy across the world's largest and most competitive business aviation markets. Since joining VistaJet in 2016 to lead its Asia-Pacific business, she has played a pivotal role in the company's global expansion, helping scale its international footprint before assuming leadership of its U.S. business.

Prior to VistaJet, Qi spent more than a decade in capital markets and business aviation finance on Wall Street, holding senior roles at Global Jet Capital, Guggenheim Partners and BNP Paribas. She holds a Master's degree in Financial Engineering from Princeton University.

A frequent speaker on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the future of luxury, Qi serves as an advisor to startups and luxury brands, helping organizations navigate growth, innovation, and global strategy. She divides her time between London and New York with her family.

Mark leads more than 1,000 health and wellness professionals at the legendary wellness company’s resorts, health clubs and spas.

Under Mark’s stewardship, Canyon Ranch is building its first-ever, ground up state-of-the-art “ranch” outside of Austin, Texas. The nearly 600-acre campus, which features a resort and residential community with cutting-edge technologies, will open in October 2026.

With Mark as CEO, Canyon Ranch properties were recognized by the internationally acclaimed Michelin Travel Guide as among the most exceptional in hospitality. Canyon Ranch Tucson is one of only 16 U.S. properties to receive Three Keys in the 2024 and 2025 Michelin Guide. It was also named the #1 wellness resort in the Americas by Michelin. Canyon Ranch Lenox received Two Michelin Keys, making it the top wellness destination in New England.

The Emmy-nominated Somebody Feed Phil, one of Netflix’s most popular food and travel shows, combines Phil Rosenthal’s love of food and travel with his unique brand of humor. It has become must-see TV for foodies, restaurateurs, travelers, and armchair enthusiasts around the world, with its eight seasons released in 190 countries. Season 9 will premiere on YouTube in early 2027 on his channel (@PhilRosenthalWorld), continuing Phil’s remarkable track record of finding and building audiences wherever they are.

Phil Rosenthal is an award-winning creator, writer, producer and host. He is a two-time Critics Choice Real TV Award winner, including the 2022 award for Best Travel/Adventure Show for Somebody Feed Phil and the 2021 Male Star of the Year award. He also won the 2016 James Beard Award for Best Television Program, On Location for his first food and travel series, I’ll Have What Phil’s Having. Somebody Feed Phil was subsequently nominated for a 2022 James Beard Award for Visual Media—Long Form and a 2024 Critics Choice Real TV Award.

In 1995, Rosenthal created the hit CBS comedy Everybody Loves Raymond, which went on to win 16 Emmy Awards and became one of the most celebrated sitcoms in television history. Rosenthal created and served as the showrunner and executive producer throughout its nine-season run. He is a two-time New York Times bestselling author and made his Broadway debut in 2026 in Celebrity Autobiography.

Erin co-founded and launched the Canadian edition of the internationally recognized brand — Canada's premium food, wine and culinary travel magazine — and leads its editorial vision across print, digital, social, events and podcasting. With more than 20 years serving as editor of award-winning national lifestyle magazines, Erin specializes in food, wine and luxury travel, telling stories that celebrate exceptional restaurants, hotels, chefs, wineries and culinary destinations. Her work explores the people, places and experiences shaping culinary culture in Canada and around the world.

Nick founded TravMedia in 1999 after ten years as travel editor of Courier Newspapers, Australia. His knowledge and contributions to the travel industry are extensive. Nick is a proud supporter of the SATW, an active member of the ASTW, and annually supports both the British Guild of Travel Writers Awards and the ASTW Awards. He created IMM 15 years ago, The Summit 10 years ago, and IMM LUX last year, with IMM LUX UK launching in 2026. TravMedia also powers the online event marketplaces for U.S. Travel Association’s IPW. Nick is thrilled to add Podcast Host to his titles with the launch of TravMedia’s Bylline to Boarding Gate earlier this year.

Erin co-founded and launched the Canadian edition of the internationally recognized brand — Canada's premium food, wine and culinary travel magazine — and leads its editorial vision across print, digital, social, events and podcasting. With more than 20 years serving as editor of award-winning national lifestyle magazines, Erin specializes in food, wine and luxury travel, telling stories that celebrate exceptional restaurants, hotels, chefs, wineries and culinary destinations. Her work explores the people, places and experiences shaping culinary culture in Canada and around the world.

Luigi is a luxury travel expert, Editor in Chief, and storyteller with a discerning eye for the places, hotels, restaurants, and experiences that define modern luxury. With a passion for travel rooted in curiosity, culture, and impeccable taste, Luigi explores the world through a highly personal lens—seeking out exceptional properties, authentic experiences, and the details that make a destination unforgettable.

From iconic European hotels and hidden Alpine retreats to extraordinary culinary destinations, Luigi brings an editorial perspective to luxury travel, blending firsthand experience with a deep appreciation for hospitality, design, history, and lifestyle.

Mark, British-born and New York-based, has lived out of a suitcase for most of his life. He is also a columnist for Bloomberg Luxury and the creator and co-host of Bloomberg’s Travel Genius podcast. And he is an ongoing contributor to Wall Street Journal and New York Times and the author of Bargain Fever: How to Shop in a Discounted World.

A frequent television host and contributor, Mark is a regular guest on NBC’s TODAY show as a travel expert guiding viewers to the best travel and flight deals available to destinations around the world.

Australian-born, New York-based writer, historian, and editor, Tony started as a foreign correspondent in South America, reporting on terrorism in Peru, drug running in Colombia, and several military rebellions in Argentina.

From his current home in the East Village, he has commuted to Iceland, Tierra del Fuego, Beijing, Tasmania, and Zanzibar, contributing to international publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Conde Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure. Tony has authored six books, which have been translated into a dozen languages and widely anthologized. And he has edited dozen Insight Guides, all the ones from South America, plus Australian and Iceland.

He has been selected seven times for the Best American Travel Writing series and is a regular guest on the History Channel, speaking about everything from the Crusades to the birth of disco.