Together with his new Institute of Hospitality presidency, Sir David Michels, 63, has a number of affiliations that confirm his strong passion for the hotel and catering industry. He is a board member of Strategic Hotels and Resorts, and of Jumeirah Hotels; chairman of London & Capital and deputy chairman of Marks and Spencer Plc.
In 2006, he was honoured with a knighthood for his services to the hotel and catering industry. His employment history is impressive, revealing more than 40 years within the hotel and gaming business. He has held directorships at Arcadia Plc, British Land Plc, Paramount Restaurants and RAB Capital and was group chief executive of Hilton International, before selling it to HHC in 2007 for £4 billion.
Prior to Hilton, Sir David was chief executive of Stakis PLC, which he joined in 1990 and sold to Ladbrokes PLC nine years later, for £1.2 billion. He also spent 17 years internationally, working in various positions with Grand Metropolitan Plc.
“We’re privileged that Sir David has agreed to be the Institute’s new president. He brings a wealth of expertise and considerable experience, qualities which will prove to be invaluable at a key stage in the Institute’s history”, says Institute of Hospitality chief executive Philippe Rossiter FIH.
“Having invested heavily over the past few years to improve its wide range of services, the Institute is now poised to re-affirm its unique position within the global hospitality industry. With a highly respected international reputation and strong leadership skills, Sir David is very well equipped to assist us in shaping the Institute’s strategic direction over the next few years.”
