By Denis Sheehan, Publisher, H&C News: A notable, possibly remarkable, not unnoticed first year in office for Robert Richardson.
Across a lifespan of 84 years, the Institute of Hospitality has never known a year like its last, thanks to the leadership of CEO Robert Richardson. This time last year most in hospitality were unaware of Richardson, today he is one of our industry’s the most respected and visible figures.
Robert Richardson FIH, CEO, Institute of HospitalityI am pleased to say that I did know Robert before his appointment. Prior to being CEO at the IoH, Richardson was a seasoned hotel GM. He wrote for H&C News occasionally, and always on the same subject, people. As you will see in this article Richardson has always placed people first. He sings the same tune now as CEO of a national institute as he did running a small hotel in Folkestone. I understand these days this is called ‘authenticity’.
Since day one as CEO Richardson’s application to grow and revitalise the IoH has been tenacious. Initiative has followed initiative has followed initiative, a seemingly tireless diligence applied to positive change.
- The IoH formally launched their Diversity Shield initiative in June 21 to coincide with Pride Month. Repositioning the IoH logo onto a background of the emblematic Pride colours. This became a symbol for the inclusive nature of the 84-year-old professional body, a statement of welcome, one now proudly worn with pride by members.
- In July 21 the IoH won the National Association Awards 2021 for Best Membership Organisation over 10,000 members. A title that today has seen the announcement of its retention for 2022.
- The IoH also founded their Youth Council in July 21 to create practical career development information and help for people entering hospitality. A highpoint already being a webinar late last year that discussed what the future holds for the hospitality talent of tomorrow with the UK Government’s Crown Representative for Small Business. Richardson then launched the Institute of Hospitality Golf Day, in association with Caterer.com to further fund the development of the Youth Council in October 21. The event was greeted with immediate support from every sector of hospitality and catering, embracing the need to fuel the development of young talent in our industry.
- In September 21 the I’m In #imin campaign launched, promoting sales of the Diversity Shield available through the IoH website. The campaign is raising money to support disadvantaged members of the hospitality family benefiting from IoH membership at no cost to them.
- In November 21, the IoH relaunched the ‘Passion4Hospitality’ conference that welcomed over 450 attendees to engage with 30 speakers across two floors of the Novotel London West.
- In November 21 the IoH won the ‘Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year’ award at the Chartered Governance Institute UK&I annual awards.
In his first year Richardson has led membership growth from 12,000 to 14,000 members. The operational team has also grown, welcoming new talent into departments including membership, marketing, social media, professional development, and accounts. New talent that includes the Institute’s first two apprentices. The Supervisory Board of non-executive directors also achieved gender parity.
The Institute of Hospitality is now a member of the Bank of England Decision Maker Panel regarding the impact of national and international events on the economy.
Richardson’s current focus is for the IoH to achieve Chartered status. That ambition was given a massive vote of confidence by Alastair Storey OBE FIH, Chair, Westbury Street Holdings in March 2022. Storey made a substantial personal financial contribution to fund the Professional Associations Research Network work in helping the IoH to Chartered status.
Richardson’s leadership has not gone unnoticed as Harry Murray MBE FIH explained to us: “The hospitality industry is facing huge challenges, as such the role and status of the Institute of Hospitality has never been more important since it was established in 1938.
“The IoH has made huge strides during the past year under the leadership of CEO Robert Richardson. Robert has established a diverse, inclusive, and truly inspirational team.
“To compete against other industries for the best talent and to develop the next generation of hospitality leaders the IOH must continue to evolve.
“As a member I appeal to all members of the Institute to give Robert and his team their full support in their efforts to establish a Royal Charter which would establish the IOH as the lead body for hospitality professionals.”
The list of achievements above is by any standard notable, some might say remarkable, and as Harry so eloquently states, has not gone unnoticed.
Congratulations and well done Robert.
Best wishes