THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS, November 2004...Jeffrey V. Farina, Chief Development Officer for Benchmark Hospitality International and a seasoned hotelier with extensive conference center industry experience, has been elected President of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC).  He was previously First Vice President for the prestigious global association.

Farina ran for President citing the breadth of his industry knowledge and his vast experience with a host of properties managed by leading conference center, hotel and resort management companies, including Benchmark, Harrison, Doubletree and Four Seasons.

"My unique understanding of the diversity of conference centers globally," stated Farina, "through my work with Benchmark in developing new projects and repositioning existing properties, in addition to my years within the hotel industry, give me an important perspective on the changes that are developing within the international meetings industry."  Farina continued on to say, "We need to be vigilant of the evolving needs of the conference center industry and adjust our sails as we grow membership and advance IACC's strategic plan."

Farina's Long-term Relationship with IACC

Jeff brings solid experience within the IACC organization to his new role as President.  He has served in several capacities, including as part of the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors, and as Co-chair of the Marketing Committee.  Farina has served on the IACC Online Committee, the Annual Conference Planning Committee and the Professional Development Committee. 

"I know the players, the organization's culture, and how to move the agenda forward," concluded Farina.  He has also hosted IACC study tours and served as the IACC Liaison to the International Economic Development Council.

Farina's election represents the third time that a senior-level Benchmark Hospitality International executive has served in the top post of IACC.  Burt Cabañas, Benchmark's Founder, Chairman & CEO, and a founding member of IACC, served as President from 1983 - 1985, as did Benchmark's Chief Operating Officer, Sam Haigh, who was President from 1989 - 1991.

Jeff Farina was appointed Chief Development Officer for Benchmark Hospitality International by Burt Cabañas in 2002.  He was previously the company's Vice President for Development.  Farina is a graduate of Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, where he earned Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Business Administration.  He is a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society. 

Benchmark Hospitality International, an independent hospitality management company based in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, operates resorts, conference centers and hotels both domestically and internationally.  For locations of Benchmark Hospitality properties and for additional information, visit Benchmark's Website at www.benchmarkhospitality.com.