Hillsborough County Hotel & Lodging Association

Home
United States
Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County Hotel & Lodging Association

Website

The Hillsborough County Hotel & Lodging Association is a membership-based organization that represents leading local hotels, motels and resorts.

These accommodations generate more than 90 percent of the total hotel revenue generated in Hillsborough County. First organized in 1937, HCHLA members include hotels, motels and resorts, as well as, the beneficiaries of the Tourist Development Tax allocated within Hillsborough County, businesses providing products and services to the hotel community and Busch Gardens, one of Florida’s leading attractions.

10/28/2026

As part of our HCHLA Welcome Series, we're getting to know a little more about Rick outside of the hotel.

So, how does a busy General Manager unwind?

Sometimes, it starts with the drive home.

Rick lives in Oldsmar and has learned to use that time to shift gears—often calling his mother, sisters, or friends along the way. Once he's officially off the clock, you'll likely find him enjoying a round of golf, a good glass of red w**e, dinner with friends, or simply staying home and watching TV.

And when he really wants to get away?

The beach is always a good option.

It's a reminder that even in an industry that rarely slows down, finding those simple ways to disconnect, reconnect with the people who matter, and recharge can make all the difference.

10/21/2026

Continuing our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Rick about a career moment he's most proud of.

For him, one of the most important moments wasn't an award or a title—it was a decision.

In 1997, Rick left Baltimore, along with his friends, family, and everything familiar, to move to Florida and take the next step in his hospitality career.

Looking back, he sees that move as a turning point.

It was in Florida that he says he truly began to learn and understand the hotel industry, building the experience and perspective that would ultimately shape his career as a General Manager.

Sometimes the biggest professional milestones aren't the moments when we arrive.

They're the moments when we're willing to leave what's comfortable, take a chance, and see where the opportunity leads.

10/14/2026

As part of our HCHLA Welcome Series, we're pleased to introduce Rick Dorman, General Manager of Residence Inn Tampa Downtown.

For Rick, one of the most rewarding parts of leading a hotel is seeing progress—in the property, in the results, and especially in the people.

After spending several years in the St. Pete market, Rick has returned to Tampa with a renewed excitement for what's ahead. His hotel is currently undergoing a significant renovation, with 109 rooms being transformed as part of an approximately $6 million investment.

But the physical transformation is only part of what excites him.

Rick describes himself as results-driven, but he's equally energized by mentoring a team that wants to learn, improve, and grow. In a select-service hotel where everyone works closely together, he sees firsthand how individual development contributes to the success of the entire property.

For Rick, great results matter—but watching a team recognize its potential and become better together makes those results even more meaningful.

09/07/2026

September HCHLA Meeting & Luncheon.

08/26/2026

To wrap up our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Amber how Hyatt Place collaborates with local tourism and community initiatives.

For Amber, hospitality extends well beyond welcoming guests through the front door.
She believes hotels have an important role to play in supporting the communities they serve. Whether it's partnering with local nonprofits, hosting community events, or creating volunteer opportunities for her team, she's passionate about giving back in meaningful ways.

One recent example is the hotel's partnership with the Humane Society through its Yappy Hour event, bringing people together for a fun evening while supporting a worthy cause. Amber also shared her desire to expand volunteer initiatives and continue building relationships with organizations throughout Tampa.

Her philosophy is simple: When the community helps your hotel succeed, it's only natural to give back.

That commitment to collaboration, service, and community engagement is one more reason we're excited to welcome Amber to the Tampa Bay community.

08/19/2026

Continuing our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Amber what has surprised her most about the Tampa market.

Her answer began with a smile.

After spending the last decade here, she's watched Tampa emerge into a destination that's truly come into its own.

Amber describes the city as innovative, creative, and full of opportunity.
From exciting new developments to the energy of neighborhoods like Ybor City, she believes Tampa continues to evolve while staying true to its unique character. She also credits organizations like Visit Tampa Bay and the local hospitality community for working together to showcase everything the region has to offer.
Perhaps what has impressed her most is the collaborative spirit.

Even though hotels naturally compete, Amber says the relationships throughout the Tampa hospitality community are built on helping one another succeed because when Tampa grows as a destination, everyone benefits.

It's that combination of innovation, collaboration, and community that keeps her excited about the future of Tampa Bay.

08/12/2026

Continuing our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Amber about a career moment she's most proud of.

Rather than talking about personal accomplishments, she immediately pointed to her team.

Under Amber's leadership, the hotel earned multiple prestigious recognitions, including Hyatt Platinum Keys for both hotels and Hotel Team of the Year—an achievement that reflected exceptional guest satisfaction and operational excellence. She also shared how meaningful it was to receive recognition from the Downtown Partnership for the hotel's continued support of the Tampa Police Department and community initiatives.

For Amber, those awards represent something much bigger than trophies.
They represent a team working together, supporting one another, and creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the doors.

Because the greatest accomplishments are the ones everyone shares.

08/06/2026

As part of our HCHLA Welcome Series, we're pleased to introduce Amber ‘t Hoen, General Manager of Hyatt Place Tampa Downtown.

Amber's journey to becoming a General Manager is a testament to perseverance, mentorship, and the power of investing in people.

Originally from Amsterdam, she moved to the United States ten years ago and began her hospitality career in the United States as a Front Desk Agent with Hilton and steadily advanced through leadership roles across both Hilton and Marriott brands before joining Hyatt. Through hard work, a willingness to learn, and the encouragement of leaders who saw her potential, she steadily advanced into leadership and now serves in her first General Manager role.

When asked what excites her most about leading a team, her answer was simple:
Watching people grow.

Amber credits much of her own success to mentors who challenged her, believed in her, and opened doors throughout her career. Today, she strives to do the same for her associates—helping them discover opportunities, pursue promotions, and build rewarding careers in hospitality.

One of her favorite things to hear from a team member? "I want your job someday."
Because to Amber, great leadership isn't about holding onto a position—it's about preparing others to achieve even more than you have.

07/29/2026

To wrap up our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Jason what makes Midtown such a meaningful place to lead and grow a hotel presence.

His answer reflects both pride and perspective.

Jason shared that Midtown is more than a location—it’s a destination in the making. What’s already been built is impressive, but what stands out even more is the sense of momentum. As the area continues to grow, he sees ALOFT TAMPA MIDTOWN and ELEMENT TAMPA MIDTOWN as part of something bigger: a vibrant hub where hospitality, local life, and community connection come together.

That vision includes a strong focus on engaging local residents as much as travelers.

From happy hours and neighborhood programming to creating welcoming gathering spaces, Jason and his team are focused on becoming more than just a place to stay. They want to be part of the Midtown experience—an active, energetic presence that locals enjoy and visitors remember.

We’re excited to welcome Jason to this chapter of Tampa hospitality and look forward to the impact he’ll continue to make.

07/22/2026

Continuing our HCHLA Welcome Series, we asked Jason how he likes to unwind after a busy day—and what trends he’s noticing in Tampa’s travel and tourism landscape.

For Jason, unwinding doesn’t always happen at the end of the day. Often, it starts early in the morning.

A father of two and a passionate fitness enthusiast, he finds that his quiet time comes before the world wakes up—through movement, routine, and a chance to reset before the pace of the day begins. And after work, the best moments are often the simplest: being home with his children, cooking dinner, and spending time with family.

That same thoughtful perspective shows up in how he sees the Tampa market evolving.

Jason has noticed that travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that feel local, memorable, and connected to the destination. Whether it’s culture, cuisine, music, or neighborhood energy, today’s guests want more than a room—they want a sense of place.

And in Tampa, he sees endless opportunities to deliver exactly that.

Address

PO Box 3298
Tampa, FL
33601

Website

http://www.hchla.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Hillsborough County Hotel & Lodging Association posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.