How the Hyatt Inclusive Collection Travel Advisor Board Operates
The Hyatt Inclusive Collection Travel Advisor Board convenes biannually at selected destinations, typically at new or recently opened resorts. In addition to these in-person meetings, the board also holds virtual discussions as needed. During the on-site sessions, board members engage in general and business discussions, culminating in a detailed review that includes direct feedback to resort executives.
“We create a space for open dialogue by stepping out of the room for about an hour. This allows advisors to share their thoughts freely,” explains Mark Benson, Associate Vice President of Sales and Strategy. “Afterward, we reconvene with the resort’s executive team for the advisors to present their feedback directly.”
Selection Process for Board Members
The selection of Travel Advisor Board members is a strategic process aimed at ensuring a diverse range of perspectives. Benson notes that they consult Business Development Managers and utilize personal networks before assembling an initial list. This list is refined to represent a comprehensive cross-section of the travel industry, featuring professionals such as marketing VPs and senior sales executives.
Impactful Participation in the Board
Shalene Dudley, a member of the Travel Advisor Board from Latitude Concierge Travels, expresses her gratitude for being part of this initiative. “Serving on this board has proven to be both meaningful and productive,” she states. “I’ve participated in various advisory boards, but this one stands out for its effectiveness.”
She highlights the prompt responsiveness of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection to advisor recommendations. “One of our main suggestions was to create detailed wedding guides for each property. I saw that implemented just this week,” Dudley adds. Another example includes feedback on local activities at Secrets Baby Beach, which was acted upon shortly after their visit.
Dudley emphasizes the board’s unique opportunity to influence high-level decisions, noting, “We can see the direct impact of our discussions.”
The Essential Role of Travel Advisors
Benson asserts the fundamental role travel advisors play in the success of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection. “They are our bedrock. They’re indispensable. End of story.” Carolina Bellina, Senior Director of Canada Sales, concurs, stating, “If they weren’t booking us, we wouldn’t be here.” The loyalty of travel advisors is credited as a significant driver of the company’s growth.
“Even when guests may not be familiar with our brands, they trust their travel advisors,” Benson notes. “Advisors serve as our frontline representatives and brand ambassadors.”
As Hyatt expands its Inclusive Collection portfolio, including the upcoming Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana set to open in July, the Travel Advisor Board’s role remains integral to its strategic decisions. Observations from the recent Confidant Connect Live 2025 reveal that this relationship is thriving more than ever.
For more insights, check out our coverage of Confidant Connect Live 2025. To read the first part, click here. To access the third part, click here.
Stay tuned for more updates and photos from Confidant Connect Live 2025!
Image caption: Hyatt Inclusive Collection’s Carolina Bellina and Mark Benson at Confidant Connect Live 2025
