Micarl "Mica" Hill

Micarl “Mica” Hill brings nearly five decades of distinguished experience in the hospitality industry. Following a successful career leading luxury hotels across the United States, he founded Ēmit Hospitality Solutions, where he serves as president, advising hospitality brands on strategy, leadership, and guest experience excellence, and as a "secret shopper" for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas.

Before launching his consultancy, Mica was executive vice president of brand development at Forbes Travel Guide, the global authority on five-star ratings for hotels, restaurants, and spas since 1958. A graduate of California Polytechnic University, Pomona, he earned his degree in hotel, restaurant, and travel management and was honored in 1991 as the distinguished alumnus of the Collins College of Hospitality Management.

Mica’s commitment to service extends beyond hospitality. As a board member of Atlanta Pet Rescue & Adoption (APRA), he helped guide the organization through its merger with Best Friends Animal Society, resulting in the establishment of Best Friends in Atlanta in 2016. Demonstrating his passion for animal welfare, Mica stepped away from his hospitality career for two years to serve as executive director of APRA, where he led operational and development improvements during the transition.

Mica and his wife of 42 years, Laureen, have lived across the country and recently returned to their home state of California, settling in Carmel-by-the-Sea after six years in Manhattan. Together they enjoy global biking and hiking adventures with Backroads, birding, the arts, music, cooking, and dedicating their time to volunteering.