The Irish Hospitality Institute has announced the appointment of Brian Bowler FIHI as the 29th president of the organisation. The IHI is the professional body for managers within the hospitality and tourism industry.
A native of Kerry, hospitality is in Brian’s blood as he cut his teeth in the family’s B&B in Dingle. He has held senior management roles The Brehon, Carton House and in Choice Hotels and the Great Southern Hotel Groups.
In Kerry he was involved in the creation of the Kerry Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2016 – 2022, the Kerry branch of the Irish Hotel Federation and was President of SKAL Kerry.
Native of Kerry
Brian is General Manager of one of Cork’s cutting-edge hotels, The Montenotte, since 2017. He has been Chair of Munster District and Deputy President of the Irish Hospitality Institute. He is the first Kerry native to serve as President since the organisation was founded in 1966.
Following the announcement at the IHI annual general meeting, Brian said, “In Ireland we have a well-earned global reputation for hospitality. Growing up in the industry and learning from some of the best hoteliers in Ireland. I know first-hand from a very early age that it is the people who make Irish hospitality world renowned.
I hope to continue this legacy, to nurture the next generation of hospitality professionals. By helping them flourish and deliver world class experiences, as we welcome guests through our doors once more.
Recruitment and Retention vital for the future
The retention and recruitment of talent will be key to the future recovery of our industry. I am so proud and honoured to be leading the IHI in what will be a pivotal time for our industry and for our people.”
Speaking on the appointment National Executive Officer of the IHI, Tina Maree said; “Having a President like Brian, who is so people focussed in everything that he does, will be so important for our members going into the next two years as we face the future, with confidence, together.”