Raymond Martz Named Recipient of 2026 Paragon Award
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals honored the executive for his significant industry contributions.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Hospitality
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) has named Raymond Martz the recipient of its 2026 Paragon Award. The award recognizes Martz for his longstanding service and contributions to the fields of hospitality finance and technology.
Why it matters
The honor acknowledges Martz for his leadership role in guiding the development of the 12th revised Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI). This standard serves as a critical financial framework for hospitality professionals globally.
Martz helped build Pebblebrook Hotel Trust from a $400 million blind-pool IPO and has led over $15 billion in capital markets transactions during his career. He previously contributed to a $5.2 billion acquisition involving LaSalle Hotel Properties.
The players
Raymond Martz
He serves as the co-president and CFO of Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and has held finance roles at various lodging firms since 1994.
HFTP
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals is an international organization that provides expertise and resources to the hospitality industry.
The details
Martz, who currently serves as co-president and CFO of Pebblebrook Hotel Trust, co-chaired the committee responsible for the 12th revised USALI. Published in July 2024, the guide establishes updated financial reporting standards used by lodging operators.
Timeline
1994-1995: Martz worked at Orient Hotel Group.
1995-1997: Martz held a position at Tishman Hotel Corp.
2009: Martz co-founded Pebblebrook Hotel Trust.
July 2024: The 12th revised USALI was published.
2026: Martz received the Paragon Award.
Market Landscape
The 12th revised Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI) functions as the definitive financial standard for the hospitality sector. This award highlights the influence of executive leadership in shaping the reporting frameworks that define modern industry competition.
While the award is a professional industry milestone, the standardization of financial reporting via the USALI ensures more consistent operational data for lodging investors and stakeholders. Business travelers and hotel patrons may see more uniform pricing and expense structures as firms adopt these updated guidelines.
The takeaway
The Paragon Award underscores the vital role that collaborative financial standard-setting plays in the growth of the hospitality sector. Industry executives like Martz demonstrate that long-term service and commitment to structural improvements remain highly valued by professional peers.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the sector on our Hospitality page.
