Christopher J. Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton Worldwide, has been selected as the 2014 recipient of Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International's (HSMAI) Albert E. Koehl Award for lifetime achievement in hospitality marketing.

Nassetta will be honored at the HSMAI Adrian Awards dinner reception and gala on Feb. 23 at the New York Marriott Marquis.

The Albert E. Koehl Award for lifetime achievement in hospitality marketing recognizes individuals who have spent a major portion of their careers in the hospitality and travel profession and have contributed to the betterment of the industry in a significant and lasting way, over an extended period of time. The award is named in honor of Albert E. Koehl, a pioneer in hotel advertising.

“Chris has shown a dedication to the hospitality industry throughout his career, and is an ambassador for the global hospitality industry,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, president and CEO of HSMAI. “Since coming to Hilton, he has energized their brands, with a renewed focus on guest experience, strategic marketing, culture and innovation. He is most deserving and we are excited to present him with the Albert E. Koehl Award.”

Nassetta joined Hilton Worldwide in 2007 after serving as president and CEO of Host Hotels & Resorts for seven years. Inc., a position he had held since 2000. Prior to joining Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc., Nassetta co-founded Bailey Capital Corporation in 1991, where he was responsible for the operations of the real estate investment and advisory firm.

He joins past Koehl award recipients including: David Kong, Roger Dow, Eric A. Danziger, Sol Kerzner, Ian Schrager, Barbara Talbott, Barry S. Sternlicht, Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, Horst H. Schulze, John J. Russell, CHME, Michael A. Leven, CHME, and Richard Branson.