The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) has announced the members of its 2026 Board of Directors Executive Committee. The committee is made up of industry professionals with a combined experience exceeding 215 years in hospitality.
The FRLA, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, represents Florida’s $112 billion hospitality sector and its two million employees. The association’s stated mission is to protect, educate, and promote the interests of the state’s hospitality industry.
The newly named executive committee includes Greg Cook as Chairman. Cook serves as General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Other officers are Henry Delgado, Managing Partner at Smith and Wollensky Restaurant Group in Miami Beach, who will serve as Vice Chairman; Chuck Prather, President of Birchwood Development in St. Petersburg, as Secretary/Treasurer & Lodging Director; Dennis Chan, Chef & Owner/Operator of Blue Bamboo in Jacksonville as Restaurant Director; Aaron Hoefen from Marriott International in Tampa as Lodging Director; Richard Schneider from AREAS USA in Miami as Restaurant Director; and Nick Sarra from Saltwater Restaurants Inc., Destin, serving as Immediate Past Chair.
Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, commented on the announcement: “As FRLA marks its 80th anniversary, we are reminded that our strength has always come from the dedication of our members and leaders. The 2026 Executive Committee brings extraordinary experience and passion at a pivotal time for our industry. Their leadership will help us build on eight decades of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration as we champion policies that support our workforce, our businesses, and Florida’s position as a global hospitality leader.”
Greg Cook also shared his perspective: “I am honored to serve as the 2026 FRLA Chairman of the Board as our country also celebrates its 250th anniversary this year. Restaurants and hotels have long played a vital role in shaping our culture and driving our economy. I’m committed to championing our industry as we build on FRLA’s great legacy of advocating for policies that support growth, empower our workforce, inspire our next generation of leaders and ensure Florida remains the leading destination for hospitality excellence.”
More information about the biographies of board members can be found through resources provided by FRLA.
