The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) has elected Matt O'Connor as its 41st President.
Mr O'Connor, a hotelier with over 30 years of leadership experience, succeeds Michael Magner in the role.
A native of Co. Wexford, Mr O’Connor is the Managing Director of the Mullingar Park Hotel.
He has been with the hotel since it first opened its doors 23 years ago.
As an active member of the IHF since 2008, he has served as Chair of the Midlands Branch and most recently as National Vice President.
His extensive contribution to the Federation includes long-standing membership of the National Council and Management Committee.
Commenting on his election, Mr O’Connor stated that his presidency comes at a pivotal moment for Irish tourism as the sector navigates mounting operating costs while preparing for new growth opportunities.
"As we look ahead through 2026, we see clear reasons for optimism, including the restoration of the 9% VAT rate on food services this July, the ambitious National Tourism Policy, and the commitment to addressing the passenger cap at Dublin Airport," said Mr O'Connor.
"These are the foundations for our future growth as part of Irish tourism and hospitality, our largest indigenous industry, supporting over 270,000 livelihoods," he said.
Mr O'Connor said his presidency will be defined by four core pillars to realise the potential of the industry and the need to be proactive as a sector.
He said he will ensure strong representation for every member from rural guesthouses to urban hubs; advocate for effective policy that maintains the IHF's global competitiveness; accelerate their sustainability transition; and nurture the talent that is the very foundation of Irish hotelier's success.
The IHF is the national organisation for the hotel and guesthouse sector in Ireland, representing over 900 businesses that directly employ 69,000 people throughout the country.
