Robert Richardson FIH, who on 19 April 2021 assumed the post of chief executive officer of the Institute of Hospitality, the leading international professional body for current and aspiring leaders and managers in the hospitality industry, has issued a letter formally introducing himself to the Institute’s 12,500 members in the UK and around the world.
Richardson’s message was delivered against the backdrop of a hospitality industry battered but unbowed in the past year by Brexit and the coronavirus, yet more than ever determined to face the future with optimism, working collaboratively to address challenges that include a looming labour and skills crisis.
In his letter, Richardson refers to a number of his ambitions for the 83-year-old Institute of Hospitality and invites feedback from members on the work of the Institute. He also reiterates its commitment to achieving chartered status.
Below is the text of Robert Richardson FIH’s letter:
I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Hospitality.
I am excited and honoured to be leading our industry’s membership organisation for hospitality professionals. I recognise that whilst the past year has had a significant impact on our industry, and taken its toll in so many ways, the Institute is focused on helping you reset, reopen and rebuild.
I have been a member of our Institute since 2010, and a member of its Supervisory Board since 2018. With the insights gained during this time, I have a strong vision for what the Institute can become over the next decade. I am ready for the opportunities ahead and looking forward to an enhanced industry collaboration and adding more value to our members.
For the first month, I envisage taking time to listen and understand whilst formulating ideas before picking up the momentum as we head into month two. I very much welcome any feedback that you may wish to share at this point. I want to engage with as many of you as possible, as your opinions matter.
My ambitions for the Institute include growing our membership, bringing more networking and development opportunities to our members, and ensuring our industry is fully aware of the value that being part of our Institute brings. I also believe that paramount to our continued success is for us to realise our ambition to achieve chartered status.
On a personal note, since the news of my appointment was released, I have been overwhelmed by the well-wishers and kind words from so many of you which I genuinely did not expect. Holding this position is a privilege and I aim to serve.
Today we move forward to a bright future for our industry and for our Institute. In whatever sector of our diverse industry you find yourself in, we move forward together, and for a brighter future for our Hospitality Family, I say this: I’m in.
Kind regards
Robert Richardson FIH
Chief Executive Officer
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Hospitality & Catering News: Institute of Hospitality CEO’s letter of introduction to 12,500 members. – 2 May 2021 – Institute of Hospitality CEO’s letter of introduction to 12,500 members.
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