Join us as we celebrate the travel industry leaders who go above and beyond.
For the third consecutive year, FXExpress Publications, Inc. presents its Industry Leader Awards — a curated recognition of the most outstanding professionals shaping the travel industry. These honorees represent leadership, innovation and dedication across aviation, hospitality, cruise, airports, sustainability and diversity. Congratulations to all the remarkable recipients.
THE PROCESS
The FXExpress Publications team solicited nominations for leaders across each category. Nominees were submitted with brief justifications, compiled, and then a confidential survey was distributed to FXExpress staff to select the final Industry Leader for each category.
BEST AVIATION INDUSTRY LEADER
Mitsuko Tottori, CEO & President, Japan Airlines
In January 2024 Mitsuko Tottori made history as the first woman to serve as president and chief executive of Japan Airlines after nearly 40 years with the company, a career that began as a JAL flight attendant. Her rise through roles such as senior director of cabin attendants showcases a rare and inspiring career trajectory. Tottori’s appointment is particularly meaningful in a professional culture where women still face barriers to promotion, and she hopes her advancement encourages more women across Japan to pursue leadership roles.
BEST HOTEL INDUSTRY LEADER
Christopher J. Nassetta, President & CEO, Hilton Hotels
Chris Nassetta has led Hilton since 2007, overseeing the company’s global portfolio and guiding strategic growth, technology investment and sustainability initiatives. A respected voice in the industry, he serves on multiple travel organizations and boards. Under his leadership, Hilton has pursued an ambitious development pipeline and prioritized innovations that help the brand stay ahead of industry trends.
BEST CRUISE LINE INDUSTRY LEADER
Kristin Karst, Co-Founder & Executive Vice President, AmaWaterways
Kristin Karst co-founded AmaWaterways over two decades ago and has helped build a river cruise company centered on family, hospitality and exceptional culinary and wellness experiences. Her leadership emphasizes passion, positivity, personal engagement, partnership and a pioneering spirit. Karst’s approach to guest experience and her commitment to service continue to inspire peers across the cruise and river travel sectors.
BEST AIRPORT INDUSTRY LEADER
Ralph Cutié, Airport Director, Miami International Airport
Ralph Cutié leads Miami International Airport, now one of the nation’s largest hubs for international travel. In addition to MIA, he oversees four general aviation airports in the region, collectively supporting significant economic activity and employment. Cutié’s leadership focuses on operational excellence and strategic planning that position MIA for continued growth and service to travelers and the community.
BEST GREEN INITIATIVES & SUSTAINABILITY INDUSTRY LEADER
Eric Caplan, Sustainability and Resilience Program Director, Tampa International Airport
With academic grounding in environmental studies and deep ties to Florida, Eric Caplan leads sustainability and resilience efforts at Tampa International Airport. His initiatives include energy and water reduction programs, rooftop solar installations on parking structures, expanded EV charging infrastructure and sustainable development projects. Caplan also coordinates environmental plans across the airports governed by the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority.
BEST DIVERSITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION INDUSTRY LEADER
Tyronne Stoudemire, Senior Vice President, Global DEI, Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Tyronne Stoudemire leads global diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across Hyatt’s brands, building programs that include employee resource groups, mentoring for people of color and focused multicultural and LGBTQIA+ marketing efforts. His work has strengthened DEI across the hospitality sector and earned him recognition among top diversity executives in the industry.