IoH CEO named in Top 50 LGBTQIA+ Champions and Allies List 2023

IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI, has been included on Checking-IN’s inaugural Top 50 LGBTQIA+ Champions List for 2023.

Commenting on the news on the eve of Pride Month, Richardson FIH MI said: “I am delighted and humbled to be recognised on Checking-IN’s 50 LGBTQ+ Champions in Hospitality 2023 list. As an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community I recognise that allyship is the backbone of EDI, and championing EDI within the hospitality industry is a personal passion for me, and a commitment by the Institute of Hospitality to continue to build a fully inclusive industry. Congratulations to all those recognised on the list. Together we are making a difference.”

Checking-IN, which was set up for the hospitality industry’s community of LGBTQIA+ professionals and their allies, held a celebratory event last night (31 May 2023), to celebrate the 2023 list of champions.

IoH members who also made the list were:

• Eugenio Pirri FIH – Chief Executive Officer, Dorchester Collection (effective 1 July 2023)
• Kurt Macher MIH – General Manager Shangri-La The Shard, London
• Derek Rostel FIH – Regional Director of People and Culture, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
• Bob van den Oord FIH – Managing Director, The Langham, London
• Michael Bonsor FIH -Managing Director, Rosewood London
• Tom Crocker MIH –  Business Director, Aramark
• Simon Lewis FIH – IoH London committee member

The Top 50 LGBTQIA+ Champions List for 2023 is here.

Eugenio Pirri FIH, newly appointed CEO of the Dorchester Collection who nominated Robert as an LGBTQIA+ champion, commented: “Robert had always been a strong ally and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. He understands the importance of creating diverse and respectful working environments that allow people and our industry to achieve unlimited potential. I am proud to acknowledge Robert and all his efforts. He truly is a champion!”

Dorothea Jones MIH, IoH Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Lead, who attended last night’s celebration on behalf of IoH CEO, Robert Richardson FIH MI, said: “As allies, we must continue to amplify all LGBTQIA+ voices and messages, not just during Pride Month, but all year round. No one should be afraid to use their voice or platform. Allyship is a lifelong commitment which will help bring about positive and necessary change, which we must continue to strive for.”

From everyone at the IoH, congratulations to everyone who was nominated this year.

To find out more about Checking-IN please follow this link.