Chris Timbs of Hilton Hotels & Resorts has been named ‘Young Marketer of the Year’ 2012 by the Hotel Marketing Association (HMA) www.hotelmarketingassociation.com

Now in its seventh year, the Young Marketer of the Year award was created by the HMA, a branch of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, to recognise the cream of young marketing talent in the hotel industry. Eligible candidates have to demonstrate they have made a significant contribution to the success of the company and be aged under 30.

Chris was praised for the work he had completed on campaigns for Hilton including Heart Radio and Stay Hilton Go Chill. He was presented with his award, which included a one-day course at the Chartered Institute of Marketing at Moor Hall and a bottle of champagne, in a ceremony at London’s Savoy Hotel. (17 December)

Following a record number of entries for the awards this year, a Highly Commended was also given to Geoff Morrison of Crieff Hydro for his strategic approach and quirky campaigns on behalf of the hotel, with Katie Scott of Rockliffe Hall named as runner-up.

The HMA also announced the winners of its Annual Marketing Awards, sponsored by American Express, which are now in their 19th year, with two companies scooping double awards.

‘Best Social Media Campaign’ and ‘Best Marketing Activity Hotel Chain’, went to Aloft Hotels for their Play & Stay music promotion. The campaign encouraged young musicians and bands to audition in Aloft Hotels in return for a free overnight stay and possible chance to record. The judges praised the campaign for its innovation, creativity and ability to reach the target audience Gen Y.

Travelodge was awarded Highly Commended in the Best Marketing Activity Hotel Chain for the relaunch of their Business Account card.

Best Marketing Activity for an Individual Hotel or Conference Centre went to the Corinthia Hotel, London for their Above & Beyond Promotion to launch seven luxury penthouse suites at the hotel, in an economic downturn with impressive results. The campaign included the production of an A3 size book with quality photography, which was sent to a selective list of recipients. Corinthia Hotel agency Inaria, also picked up ‘Best Agency Promotion or Campaign’ for the same promotion.

Two Highly Commended’s were given to the Stafford Hotel, London for their Lyttelton Restaurant guest room campaign and Whittlebury Hall, Northamptonshire, for their Go for Gold conference promotion in the Best Marketing Activity for Individual Hotel or Conference Centre category.

“We were delighted to receive a record number of entries for the awards this year and the judges were extremely impressed with the quality of the submissions. It is proof that there are some great hotel marketing campaigns out there,“ said Linda Moore, Chairman Hotel Marketing Association.

The Hotel Marketing Association Awards are the only dedicated recognition scheme which celebrate good practice in hotel marketing and are judged by industry experts.

The HMA’s membership comprises sales and marketing specialist and operators of both independent and chain hotels.

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