The Institute of Hospitality has confirmed the appointment of Martin Traynor OBE FIH, as the chair of its Board of Trustees during its Annual General Meeting on 4 September.

Martin will take over the role, with immediate effect, from outgoing chair Kellie Rixon MBE FIH.

Confirming the appointment 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 Trayner OBE FIH, who joined the Board as a trustee earlier this year said: "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” confirmed Martin.

Presenting the Institute’s 2023 Annual Report to its members at the virtual AGM, the Institute’s CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI also confirmed that 2023 had been another momentous year for the organisation. Commenting that despite the global financial pressures, the Institute had delivered a net-profit for the fourth year in a row.

Robert also advised: “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.”

Thanking the membership for their support during the year, Robert also 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.”

In response, Kellie Rixon MBE FIH confirmed: “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.”

A copy of the Institute's 2023 Annual Report is here.