HFTP Member Spotlight: Eileen Sarris

The benefits of association membership aren't just for long-time industry professionals—especially when you hit the ground running like this week's Member Spotlight recipient, Eileen Sarris, CPA, CHAE of Sarasota, Florida, who has been a member since 2012.

How long have you worked in the hospitality industry?

I was in public accounting for 20 years before joining The Field Club 11 years ago as their Chief Financial Officer.

What are some of the highlights of your time with HFTP?

I have been active in the HFTP Florida Manasota Chapter, joining the chapter board of directors in 2013 and since have served in all officer-level positions several times. During two of my terms as president, Manasota received the Chapter of the Year award. I was also the chair of the 2018 HFTP Florida Regional Conference.

The first global HFTP conference I attended was the 2013 Annual Convention in Dallas, Texas. I attended my first HITEC in 2014 in Los Angeles, where I took (and passed!) the CHAE exam, earning the CHAE of the Year honor. I believe I have attended every Annual Convention since and have only missed one HITEC. I have also attended several Club Summits, Club Forums and chapter leader conferences over the years and participated in the inaugural 2022 Leadership Excellence Series.

I currently serve on several HFTP Global councils, including the Annual Convention Education Advisory Council, CHAE Certification Advisory Council, Chapter Relations Committee, Club Advisory Council and the Club Finance Advisory Council. I am also currently serving the fourth year of my term on the HFTP Global Board of Directors.

What do you find most valuable about your HFTP membership?

I was new to the hospitality industry when I joined HFTP. The continuing education opportunities and networking through HFTP have been invaluable. By attending local chapter meetings, Florida regional events and global conferences, I have met so many professionals, many of whom have become good friends. When issues arise where I could use some advice on how other clubs handle these situations, I know I have an outstanding network of contacts who are always willing to share their experiences and knowledge. In return, I also enjoy being able to share my knowledge and experiences with other HFTP members.

About Hospitality Finance and Technology Professionals

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®), established in 1952, is a nonprofit hospitality association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with offices in the United Kingdom, Netherlands and Dubai. HFTP is recognized as the spokesgroup for the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP uniquely understands the industry's pressing issues and assists its stakeholders in finding solutions to their challenges more efficiently than any organization. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and industry networking events.