Shawn Pisani, vice president at global meetings and events specialist HelmsBriscoe, has joined the advisory board of the Accessible Hospitality Alliance (AHA).
The appointment forms part of a wider expansion of AHA’s senior advisory structure following its first major event, the AHA Forum, held earlier this year in partnership with food service provider Thomas Franks.
Pisani brings extensive experience in the hospitality and events sector. HelmsBriscoe operates across more than 60 countries and provides site selection and event management support for global clients.
The firm’s diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) policy identifies inclusivity as a “business and moral essential” fundamental to its culture and client service.
AHA said Pisani is already contributing to the planning of its next event, the AHA Forum in partnership with Thomas Franks, which will take place on 5 November at Scale Space White City, London.
Pisani said: “I am honoured to join the Accessible Hospitality Alliance advisory board. As a parent of a child with special needs, a hotelier, and through the projects I’ve been involved in, I have seen first-hand the power of true inclusion on people, society, and businesses alike.
“Our industry is well known for bridging cultural divides; its ability to improve accessibility and set an example for the rest of society is equally powerful, though less recognised. I am eager to support and contribute to the Alliance’s work, and I believe that together we can make a profound impact.”
Denis Sheehan, co-founder and managing director of AHA, added: “It was immediately apparent when we met that Shawn shares a deep personal commitment to aha’s purpose: a hospitality world that welcomes everyone. We are privileged to welcome him to our advisory board and look forward to working alongside him.”
