The IMA Lifetime Achievement Award (formerly IMA Hall of Fame) was established in 2016 to honor individuals who played a major role in the industry's success through a lifetime of achievements in the incentive marketplace. This award recognizes an individual who best represents career and industry achievement and longevity and has demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout their career, inspiring others to achieve similar success.
Ferreira’s career trajectory—from a solitary entrepreneur to a transformative industry leader—embodies a lifetime of achievements, innovations and contributions that have not only shaped his business, HMI Performance Incentives, now a 360insights company; but also left an indelible mark on the incentive industry.
For over 40 years, Ferreira’s focus on innovation led to groundbreaking industry initiatives. In 1997, HMI became the first incentive organization to partner with an existing airline (American Airlines) that enabled the purchase and transfer of AAdvantage miles into incentive program points. This agreement was the catalyst for HMI’s highly successful Vacation Miles Program. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, he also demonstrated remarkable resilience in keeping travel incentives alive despite the challenges faced by the industry. Understanding the profound impact of the tragedy on air travel and tourism, in 2002 he spearheaded the launch of a patriotic-themed reward system aimed at promoting domestic travel and encouraging award earners to explore the wonders of the United States. By introducing creative solutions such as individual travel award certificates tailored to the changing post-9/11 landscape, Ferreira ensured that travel incentives not only survived but thrived. His forward-thinking influence was felt in all aspects of incentive program delivery from adapting to changing times to a focus on data-driven program design and full-service implementation.
Ferreira founded HMI, Inc. in 1980, and 20 years ago, it was changed to HMI Performance Incentives. The company became a member of IMA in 2017 with Lincoln Smith as its representative. In December 2023, HMI Performance Incentives was purchased by 360 Insights. Today Ferreira acts as a strategic advisor to 360 Insights.
Upon receiving the award Ferreira said “I’m very honored and humbled to receive this prestigious award from the Incentive Marketing Association. My career in the incentive industry began 52 years ago. It has taken me around the world and connected me with amazing people from different cultures. Our industry has allowed me to provide our incentive expertise embodied by the members of the IMA to a wide array of global companies. It requires creative thinking, innovative solutions, risk-taking, trusting relationships, and a willingness to always be uncomfortable with the status quo. It is what motivates me every day. I feel very lucky to have been a part of this unique and important industry.”
View all IMA Summit Award winners on the IMA website.