NEWH - Spring 2015 - 22

Q&A

Getting to Know
Fernando Diaz

Vice president of finance for NEWH, Inc.
board of directors and founder of
Fernando Diaz & Associates

How did you become involved with NEWH?
I became involved with NEWH in 2000 by the request of several
members. Once I found out NEWH's mission of awarding
scholarships to deserving students, I was hooked.
 
What has NEWH done for you, personally and professionally? 
NEWH has educated me more and more about the hospitality
industry through its education programs, networking events,
and its leadership conference.
 
In your role on the NEWH board of directors, what do you have
planned for 2015? What are you most looking forward to?
As vice president of fi nance on the international level, I am
charged with making sure the chapter and NEWH, Inc. are
following the correct procedures-that the fi nancial reporting is
done on time and we are operating with fi nancial responsibility.
I am also creating, with the assistance of other members, a
NEWH signature fundraising event that will debut in Miami
in early 2016. If anyone is interested in becoming involved or
becoming a sponsor, please let us know.
 
What were some of the highlights of 2014?
Highlights for 2014 in NEWH were to have all chapters follow
banking and reporting policies, and on a personal level,
becoming vice president of fi nance in the international board of
directors.
 
Tell us what's new with your company.
My company, Fernando Diaz & Associates, has been heavily
involved in high-end residential design-residences ranging
from 5,000 to 20,000 square feet.
 
What is your business outlook for 2015?
The business outlook for 2015 looks very good. We have projects
underway throughout Los Angeles, Carmel, and Palm Springs,
California.

22 www.newh.org

 What is the biggest challenge today in hospitality? Biggest opportunity?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in hospitality today is
listening to the guests and fi nding out what they really want and
how to enhance that quest for experience.
 
Latest travel highlight?
I recently returned from a two-week trip to Italy, spending one
week in Umbria visiting the most wonderful small towns and
villages. I was so inspired that I'm considering a pictorial coffee
table book of the area, but with a different twist-I don't want to
give it away. And what can I say about the food-fantabulous!
 
Is there a trend or movement you are paying attention to in the
industry?
Th roughout my design career I have been known not to follow
trends-here today, gone tomorrow. I am excited about the hotel
bar-lounge areas that are becoming somewhat the hub of hotels.
 
When you aren't working or at an NEWH event, where can we find
you?
You can fi nd me helping deserving charitable institutions,
going to artistic events, including but not limited to theaters,
museums, wine tastings, and food presentations. I also enjoy my
home away from home in Palm Springs, and of course, traveling
and experiencing other cultures, feeding my soul and my artistic
desires. ❙❘❚
http://www.newh.org
NEWH - Spring 2015

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