A Letter from Our CEO

Reflecting on a Year of Momentum 

As we close the year, I find myself reflecting less on individual achievements and more on the momentum we continue to build—together. 

Hosts Global was built on a belief that still guides us today: meaningful experiences are created through local expertise, trusted relationships, and people who care deeply about the work. Our heritage is not something we reference for nostalgia. It is a standard we hold ourselves to—wherever we operate around the world. Staying local. Staying people-focused. Staying human. That is how trust is earned, and it is how it is sustained. 

This year brought important milestones across our global network. We were honored to receive industry awards that recognize the depth of talent and commitment across our teams. We opened Hawaii, expanding our owned presence in a destination that demands cultural respect, creativity, and operational excellence. And we thoughtfully welcomed new Members into our Global Alliance—partners who strengthen our reach while upholding the standards and values that define Hosts. 

Across every region, our teams delivered increasingly complex programs with clarity and confidence. Intentional creativity and design set the vision, while disciplined planning and rock-solid execution brought it to life. From large, multi-city programs to highly curated, intimate experiences, our approach remained the same: design with purpose, execute with precision, and never lose sight of the people at the center of the experience. 

Our clients are not just customers—they are collaborators. 

The most meaningful work we do happens when trust is mutual and goals are shared. This year, planners around the world relied on Hosts Global as an extension of their teams—leaning on our local insight, global coordination, and calm under pressure. Together, we navigated complexity, solved challenges in real time, and created experiences that elevated their brands and made them feel legendary in the eyes of their attendees. 

We also continued to invest in how we support this work globally—from brand storytelling and creative platforms to technology, data, and operational alignment. These investments ensure that while our footprint is global, our approach remains personal, consistent, and deeply connected to the destinations we serve. 

Most importantly, this year belonged to our people. 

Across owned offices, Alliance Members, and Strategic Partners around the world, I saw leadership, accountability, and generosity in action. I saw teams collaborate across borders, mentor one another, and uphold a standard of excellence that has defined Hosts for decades. That culture—grounded in trust and fueled by human connection—is what allows us to deliver with confidence anywhere in the world. 

As we look ahead, our focus remains clear. We will continue to grow intentionally. We will continue to invest in creativity, design, sustainability, and execution. And we will continue to partner closely with our clients to create experiences that are thoughtful, seamless, and unforgettable. 

Thank you to our clients for your trust and collaboration, to our partners for strengthening our global community, and to our teams for carrying our legacy forward every day. 

Here’s to what we’ve built—together—and what’s next. 

With gratitude, 

Kurt Paben, Hosts Global CEO Signed

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