The Institute of Hospitality has announced the appointment of Martin Traynor OBE FIH as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees, following the organisation's Annual General Meeting. Traynor succeeds Kellie Rixon MBE FIH in the role.
IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI said: “I am delighted Martin has accepted the role of chair. His experience and reputation will assist us greatly as we continue to pursue our ambition to achieve Chartered Status.”
Martin Traynor OBE FIH, who became a trustee on the Board earlier this year, stated: “I am absolutely delighted to take on this important role of chair of the Board of Trustees and to support Robert and the IoH team build on the many successes they’ve achieved over the last four years.
“One such priority will be the Institute’s application for Chartered Status. And as chair, I am looking forward to working closely with the team to help make this goal a reality and help to shape the future direction of the professional body for the global hospitality industry.”
Presenting the Institute’s 2023 Annual Report to members at the virtual AGM, CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI highlighted that 2023 had been another significant year for the organisation. He noted that despite global financial challenges, the Institute achieved a net profit for the fourth consecutive year.
Robert said: “We have seen notable growth across our membership base, business partnerships, and global accreditation and endorsement work, and I am delighted that this leaves us well placed to continue to roll-out our ambitious plans for 2024 and beyond.”
Robert added: “I would like to thank our out-going board members who have finished their tenure today; Kellie Rixon MBE FIH, our outgoing chair, Wendy Sutherland FIH and Paul Gilley FIH. On behalf of myself, the IoH team and our members, thank you for your unrivalled dedication and service over the last five and six years, respectively.”
Kellie Rixon MBE FIH said: “Serving on the board of trustees for the last five years, four of which were as chair, has been a privilege. During that time the Institute has enjoyed a prolonged period of growth and transformation, and I leave it in good health and good hands. I wish Martin Traynor, Robert Richardson, and the IoH team every success for the future.”
