Sir David Michels to become IoH president

Sir David, who is the current deputy chairman of EasyJet, will take on the role in February 2012, succeeding the association’s current president, Peter Lederer.

Industry experience​

With over 40 years within the hotel and gaming business, he has held directorship roles at Arcadia, British Land, Paramount Restaurants and RAB Capital, and he was group chief executive of Hilton International, before selling it to HHC in 2007 for £4bn.

Prior to Hilton, Sir David was chief executive of Stakis, which he joined in 1990 and sold to Ladbrokes PLC nine years later, for £1.2bn. He also spent 17 years internationally, working in various positions with Grand Metropolitan.

He is also a board member of Strategic Hotels and Resorts, and of Jumeirah Hotels, as well as chairman of London & Capital and deputy chairman of Marks and Spencer.

IoH future​

Institute of Hospitality chief executive Philippe Rossiter said: “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.

“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.”