In today’s global landscape, incentive travel programs must be prepared for the unexpected. From geopolitical tensions and travel advisories to severe weather, operational disruptions, and evolving security concerns, the ability to adapt quickly has become essential. 

When disruption strikes, collaboration is critical!  This panel brings together senior leaders from the worlds of incentive planning, hospitality security, and cruise operations to discuss how major travel experiences are evaluated, protected, and reimagined when conditions change rapidly.

Through real-world examples and candid conversation, panelists will share how critical decisions are made behind the scenes, how organizations balance guest experience with traveler safety, and what effective crisis communication and contingency planning look like in practice. 
 
Learning Outcomes
Attendees will gain insight into the partnerships, protocols, and leadership strategies that help keep programs moving forward while maintaining confidence, trust, and duty of care in uncertain environments.

Meet the Panel

Kimberly G. Napolitano, ACC, CASE, CIS, (MODERATOR) is Executive Director of Global Industry Relations at Hilton, where she leads the company's global strategy to engage with organizations that shape both the meetings and events industry and the broader business travel ecosystem. In this role, Kim works across Hilton's commercial teams and industry associations to ensure Hilton is actively participating in the spaces where customers gather to learn, network, and advocate for the future of travel.

With more than 30 years of hospitality leadership experience, Kim has built a reputation as a trusted connector across the travel industry, bridging hospitality organizations, corporate travel leaders, meeting professionals, and industry associations. Her work focuses on strengthening Hilton's partnerships with organizations such as ASAE, GBTA, IRF, MPI, PCMA, and SITE, helping Hilton both contribute to and shape the evolution of the global travel and meetings ecosystem.

Kim currently serves in leadership roles across several industry organizations and frequently speaks at global conferences, including IMEX America, MPI World Education Congress, SITE Global Conference, GBTA Convention, and PCMA Convening Leaders. A certified executive coach and advocate of conscious leadership, she is passionate about developing future leaders and advancing collaboration across the travel industry.

Freddy Muller (PANELIST)
Freddy Muller is Associate Vice President of Corporate, Charter & Incentive Sales for Royal Caribbean and Silversea Cruises. With more than 34 years in the hospitality industry, Freddy has built a strong career across cruise lines, resorts, hotels, and charter air, establishing himself as a leader in the global incentive travel space.

Since starting his cruise career in 1992, Freddy has remained passionate about creating exceptional corporate and incentive experiences, working with some of the world’s most respected premium and luxury brands. Based in Miami, he also serves on the SITE Foundation Board of Trustees. 

Ellie Soucy (PANELIST) Introducing Ellie Soucy, the powerhouse behind Incentive Meeting Services, a beacon of excellence in corporate meeting and incentive planning. Known for delivering strategic solutions with an unwavering focus on quality service and creativity, Ellie's approach transcends borders. Whether the destination is domestic or international, she brings a world of experience to the table, ensuring every event is On Time, On Target, and On Budget!
 
A seasoned consultant, Ellie demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of business travel. She tailors her services to your needs, offering a comprehensive suite of meeting planning capabilities, including site selection, contract negotiation, program coordination, and meticulous pre & post follow-up. Additionally, her incentive trips are coordinated to perfection, orchestrating air/hotel arrangements, tours, activities, entertainment, and events with precision. 
 
Ellie's expertise doesn't stop there. She brings your brand to life from project inception to completion, dedicating herself to your unique vision. With over two decades of industry experience, she has an instinctive grasp on the pulse of event planning and branding, positioning her clients for success. 
 
Born in the warmth of Jamaica, raised in Rochester, NY, and having resided in cosmopolitan cities like Dubai and Hong Kong, Ellie now calls sunny Florida home. Her global upbringing has enriched her perspective, allowing her to provide a unique, cultured approach to her work.
 
Ellie started her illustrious career at Inc Magazine after majoring in accounting and criminal justice. At Inc, she developed and oversaw a pioneering program that included CEO symposiums, employee conferences, and customer loyalty conferences. Her entrepreneurial spirit eventually led her to create Incentive Meeting Services, a venture she's led to great success. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of Vice President/Membership for SITE Florida & Caribbean.
 
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ellie is a committed family woman and an avid traveler. She cherishes her leisure time, often spent with loved ones, exploring new destinations, or engaged in a captivating game. Ellie Soucy is more than a corporate event and travel expert; she's a visionary who bridges cultures, people, and brands with strategic planning and heart.

Nicholas Vargo (PANELIST) is the Global Senior Director of Business Continuity, Crisis Management & Investigations for Hilton who leans on experience between both the public and private sectors. Within the hospitality industry, Nicholas has become an active contributor to several public–private partnerships dedicated to emergency response, disaster recovery, and threat intelligence.

Since joining Hilton in 2016 as part of the Safety & Security Operations team, Nicholas has held multiple leadership roles of increasing scope and impact. In his current position, he leads Hilton’s global operational and strategic crisis response, with oversight of governance for key technology vendors and strategic partnerships worldwide. 

*This Webinar is worth (1) CMP credit

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