Matt O’Connor, a hotelier with over 30 years of leadership experience succeeds outgoing President Michael Magner.
The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) today announced that Matt O’Connor, a hotelier with over 30 years of leadership experience, has been elected its 41st President, succeeding Michael Magner. 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.
A native of Co. Wexford, Mr O’Connor is the Managing Director of the Mullingar Park Hotel, having been with the hotel since it first opened its doors 23 years ago. 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.
“It is an immense honour to lead the IHF as we work to ensure the right conditions are in place for the long-term development of our tourism industry. Our hotels and guesthouses are the heartbeat of Irish tourism and a primary driver of regional growth. This success is the result of thousands of talented, hard-working people who provide a world-class welcome every day.
“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. These are the foundations for our future growth as part of Irish tourism and hospitality, our largest indigenous industry, supporting over 270,000 livelihoods.
“To realise this potential, we must be proactive as an industry. My presidency will be defined by four core pillars: ensuring strong representation for every member from rural guesthouses to urban hubs; advocating for effective policy that maintains our global competitiveness; accelerating our sustainability transition; and nurturing the talent that is the very foundation of our success.
“We are more than just providers of accommodation; we are woven into the economic and social fabric of our communities. From Mullingar to every corner of the island, hotels support local livelihoods and regional development. I look forward to working on behalf of our members with Government and industry partners to ensure our full potential is realised so that Irish tourism remains a vibrant, world-class profession for generations to come.”
Photography: Don MacMonagle
