Institute of Hospitality launches ‘Year of Practical Excellence’

The Institute of Hospitality begins 2026 with a major enhancement to the member experience through the launch of its Professional Development ‘Year of Practical Excellence’.

This new programme brings a focused series of professional development initiatives shaped directly by member feedback, designed to strengthen hospitality careers with relevant, accessible and practical professional development.

Throughout the year, members will benefit from clear monthly opportunities to build skills, grow confidence and progress their careers with the support of the Institute.

What’s on offer this year

• A refreshed CPD calendar built around monthly themes covering hospitality leadership, people development, commercial insight, innovation and career confidence
• New practical sessions, including Front Line Focus, hands-on masterclasses and topic-led webinars to support hospitality skills development
• An enhanced Mentor Me programme to guide career progression at every stage
• Expanded content at Passion4Hospitality: The Future Leaders Conference and new Excellence Forums with insight on emerging trends
• A practical toolkit series for managers and leaders to support daily decision-making across the industry
• New career learning pathways, updated qualifications and strengthened professional recognition through the Institute of Hospitality
• Improved access to member resources, including our IoH Privileges platform

Introducing the new IoH Professional Development plan, Aymen Fetouak MIH, Head of Professional Development, said: “As Head of Professional Development, my commitment for 2026 is clear. We are honouring the Institute of Hospitality’s long-standing heritage while responding directly to the realities our members face today. We have listened carefully to your concerns, identified the gaps, and built a CPD calendar designed to meet those needs with practical, relevant and accessible support.

The Year of Practical Excellence brings together handpicked monthly themes, activities and learning experiences that speak to every stage of a hospitality career. Our promise is simple: to stand with you as your professional constant, championing your development and helping you thrive throughout 2026 and beyond.”

Looking ahead to the impact of the programme, IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI said: “Our members deserve practical support that reflects the real world of hospitality today. The Year of Practical Excellence focuses on exactly that. It strengthens skills, opens opportunities and brings our Hospitality Family closer together through learning, connection and recognition. I could not be prouder of what we are introducing for 2026.”

The Year of Practical Excellence is your opportunity to stay connected and build your skills with focused, practical learning.

Helping you achieve your professional goals in 2026

All our new and enhanced activities will be announced on our website and across our social media channels in the coming weeks and months, so you can get involved, meet your career goals and get more from your IoH professional membership throughout the year.