Brian Hicks is a seasoned hotelier with more than 30+ years of international hospitality experience, Brian has built a reputation for scaling innovation across brands, regions, and market segments. His leadership is defined by a passion for growth, a commitment to excellence, and a talent for building high-performing, purpose-driven teams.

Brian’s career began at The Ritz-Carlton in Atlanta, where he developed a strong foundation in operations. He then joined IHG Hotels & Resorts, where he spearheaded commercial initiatives across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Among his entrepreneurial achievements: launching IHG’s “revenue management for hire” program and opening the company’s first in-market call/revenue center in New York City.

Today Brian is President and CEO of the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI).  With a bold vision and entrepreneurial spirit, he leads HSMAI’s worldwide mission to empower hotels through cutting-edge strategies in sales, marketing, and revenue optimization.

Based in Dunwoody, Georgia, Brian lives with his wife Jo and their two children, Amelia and Charlie.  He enjoys spending time on Lake Nottley, golfing when time permits and traveling with his family.

His lifetime of experience inspired him to start Dash Hospitality Group, now a leader in hospitality management and consulting.  The ability to revitalize distressed businesses led to his legacy project in Dunwoody. In 2020, David stood in the nearly empty corridor of Dunwoody Village and had a vision for a center of gravity for Dunwoody.  His plan to create a vibrant hub of restaurants centered around an open and inviting courtyard quickly sprang to life.  In November of 2021, Bar{n} booze {n} bites, a neighborhood whiskey & wine bar opened along with a stationary food truck, dubbed The Funwoody Food Truck.  Morty’s Meat & Supply, which opened in December of 2022 is already a neighborhood staple. His final full concept is Message in a Bottle, which opened in late 2023, and is already a customer favorite.  In Spring of 2025, Good Vibes: Ice Cream Shop & Soda Pop filled the sweet tooth of the neighborhood.

David under Dash Hospitality Group came on board to help facilitate the opening and continued success for Hilltop.

James Reed brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality and beverage industry to Hilltop Bottle Shop. He has worked with prominent brands including Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Fleming’s, and ClubCorp. Customer service is a trademark of his career, and his love of travel has given him the opportunity to learn about wines and spirits from various parts of the world. He is a native of the midwest but considers Atlanta home after 20 plus years.

Originally from Wisconsin, Afton Eisch is a Concordia College–Moorhead graduate with hands-on experience in the retail beverage industry. Having worked in liquor stores, Afton brings a strong customer service background and product knowledge. Passionate about creating a welcoming and informed shopping experience, Afton is excited to be part of the Hilltop Bottle Shop team.