TORONTO — Rob Housez, general manager of the Chelsea Hotel, Toronto has been awarded the HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International) General Manger of the Year award. The award honours those who make outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry, commitment to community service and unwavering dedication to excellence.
The award was presented at the inaugural Hospitality Tribute Gala held on April 23 at the Fairmont Royal York. In total, there were five prestigious awards presented throughout the evening.
With more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Housez has demonstrated exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and a deep passion for service excellence. His distinguished career spans senior management roles with renowned international hotel and resort brands, including Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the InterContinental Hotels Group, Delta Hotels and Resorts, and currently, the Langham Hospitality Group. Since 2015, he has served as the general manager of the Chelsea Hotel, a member of the Langham Hospitality Group, where he has played a pivotal role in driving financial performance at Canada’s largest hotel by guestroom count.
Beyond his responsibilities within the hotel, Rob has dedicated himself to the advancement of the hospitality sector. His leadership roles include:
- Executive board member of the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA) since 2008, serving as Chairman of the Board from 2012 to 2014.
- Board member of Destination Toronto since 2012, holding the positions of vice-Chair (2017/18) and Chair (2018/19).
- Executive board member of the Downtown Yonge BIA since 2015.
- Executive board member of SKAL International Toronto North Club since 2008, serving as president from 2009 to 2010.
Housez has built his career around the principles of kindness, generosity, and community engagement. His dedication to philanthropy is evident in his longstanding commitment to the SickKids Foundation. Under his direction, the Chelsea Hotel has donated nearly $1.5 million to SickKids since 2013, with ongoing fundraising efforts extending into 2025.
