The Institute of Hospitality, in its pursuit of Chartered Status, has announced the appointment of Martin Traynor OBE FIH to its Board of Trustees. Traynor, formerly the Small Business Crown Representative at the UK Government’s Cabinet Office, brings valuable expertise to advance this process.
The appointment is a direct response to feedback from His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council, highlighting the Institute's limited recognition within the Government and for the Chartered Status application, the need to increase their visibility as the hospitality industry’s largest global, organisation for professionals.
Drawing upon his esteemed reputation and extensive advisory role within government, Martin will leverage his expertise and established network to support the Institute in meeting this requirement and advancing towards Chartered Status. This endeavor represents a pivotal mission to establish the hospitality industry's inaugural Chartered body.
Confirming the appointment, the Institute’s CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI said: “One of the Institute of Hospitality’s strengths is the variety of experience on our board, and our newest trustee complements that breadth of knowledge with expertise from his many years working within the UK Government. I am delighted to welcome Martin as a trustee, and I look forward to working closely with him. The Institute will greatly benefit from drawing on his expertise from various senior roles within government and help the Institute in its ambition to become a chartered professional body.”
Martin concluded his significant government tenure on March 31, 2024, following five years dedicated to advocating for the interests of small businesses within the UK government. Prior to this role, he served as a Member of HM Government’s Regulatory Policy Committee and held various positions, including Deputy Chairman at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Group CEO at the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce, and several non-executive roles.
Martin's profound dedication to the hospitality sector traces back many years, fueling his extensive expertise and commitment. With a background encompassing numerous General Manager roles within the hotel industry, coupled with his esteemed 27-year tenure as a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep-rooted passion to the board.
Speaking about his new role as a Trustee at the Institute, Martin confirmed: “Having been a member for over 40 years, I am delighted to be able to play a part in helping the Institute achieve Chartered Status. This is an important next step for the Institute recognising over 85 years of providing professional support for its members. I look forward to working with Robert and the Team to achieve this important goal.”
The Institute’s Supervisory Board Chair, Kellie Rixon MBE FIH said: “Martin is a proven leader in hospitality, business and government, and I am delighted to welcome Martin to our board of trustees at such a crucial time for the Institute.
“Martin has been a great supporter of ours for many years, and his experience in government is vital to our strategic objectives as we move forward.” she concluded.
