The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) has announced the members of its 2026 Board of Directors Executive Committee. The announcement highlights the experience of these leaders, who together have over 215 years in the hospitality industry.
As FRLA celebrates its 80th year, the association continues to represent Florida’s $112 billion hospitality sector and its two million employees. The organization states that it is committed to supporting, educating, and advocating for the industry across the state.
The new executive committee features a mix of restaurant and lodging professionals:
– Greg Cook, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, will serve as Chairman.
– Henry Delgado, Managing Partner at Smith and Wollensky Restaurant Group in Miami Beach, is Vice Chairman.
– Chuck Prather, President of Birchwood Development in St. Petersburg, will be Secretary/Treasurer and Lodging Director.
– Dennis Chan, Chef & Owner/Operator at Blue Bamboo in Jacksonville, is named Restaurant Director.
– Aaron Hoefen from Marriott International will serve as Lodging Director for Tampa properties.
– Richard Schneider, Chief Operating & Development Officer at AREAS USA in Miami, joins as Restaurant Director.
– Nick Sarra of Saltwater Restaurants Inc., Destin, is Immediate Past Chair.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, commented on the announcement: “As FRLA marks its 80th anniversary, we are reminded that our strength has always come from the dedication of our members and leaders. The 2026 Executive Committee brings extraordinary experience and passion at a pivotal time for our industry. Their leadership will help us build on eight decades of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration as we champion policies that support our workforce, our businesses, and Florida’s position as a global hospitality leader.”
Greg Cook also expressed his views on taking up his new role: “I am honored to serve as the 2026 FRLA Chairman of the Board as our country also celebrates its 250th anniversary this year. Restaurants and hotels have long played a vital role in shaping our culture and driving our economy. I’m committed to championing our industry as we build on FRLA’s great legacy of advocating for policies that support growth, empower our workforce, inspire our next generation of leaders and ensure Florida remains the leading destination for hospitality excellence.”
Biographical details about each board member are available through links provided by FRLA.
