IHF People Day 2026 explored how technology, shifting workforce expectations and new models of leadership are reshaping the future of work
Over 300 hotel delegates, including general managers, owners and HR professionals from across Ireland gathered at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise on Thursday May 21st for the fifth annual Irish Hotels Federation IHF People Day Conference.
This year’s event “The Human Workplace in the Age of AI”, explored how technology, shifting workforce expectations and new models of leadership are reshaping the future of work. The conference coincided with International HR Day 2026, whose global theme – “Empower People to Lead Change” – mirrors the IHF’s own commitment to shaping brighter futures across Ireland’s hotel and guesthouse sector.
The future of hospitality remains fundamentally human
Throughout the day, delegates heard how the future of hospitality remains fundamentally human, even as AI reshapes how organisations operate.
Sessions examined the opportunities and risks of AI in HR, the importance of leadership wellbeing, and the growing need for human‑centred approaches to digital transformation. Delegates also engaged with topics such as menopause and equity in the workplace, the architecture of stigma, the power of mattering, and the challenge of leading across generations in an increasingly diverse workforce.
Through keynote talks, panels and interactive sessions, speakers explored how leaders can build workplaces where people can truly thrive, including: Niall Breslin, author and thought leader in mental fitness;Dr. Lollie Mancey, anthropologist and AI ethicist; Dermot Whelan, broadcaster and meditation expert; Dr. Mary Collins, leadership and wellbeing specialist and Cleo McCormack, Global Head of Organisational Development, Version 1.
Speaking at the event, IHF President Matt O’Connor highlighted the essential role of HR leaders in shaping workplaces that support personal growth, inclusion and innovation.
“At the heart of every great hotel and guesthouse is our people – the many thousands who choose a career in our sector. Irish hospitality is recognised worldwide for its warmth, professionalism and service excellence, and that reputation is built entirely on the dedication of our teams. We sit at the heart of our communities, employing over 69,000 people directly and supporting over 270,000 livelihoods within our wider tourism industry”.
“As our workplaces evolve, so too is our approach to leadership and people development. This is a key focus for Irish hotels, creating environments where people feel valued, supported and equipped to grow. Today’s conference is about giving our people and culture leaders the insight, tools and confidence to shape those workplaces”.
“One concept that really struck me today is the importance of ‘mattering’. The desire to feel that our work, and our lives, have meaning is something I think we can all relate to. Creating an environment where people know that they matter, and where the significance of individual effort is genuinely recognised, is a simple but powerful goal for any workplace to strive toward.”
Commenting on the breadth of career opportunities within tourism and hospitality, Mr O’Connor noted:
“A career in tourism offers remarkable flexibility and a wide range of pathways for people at every stage of life. As workforce expectations shift, hotels and guesthouses are uniquely positioned to offer meaningful work, adaptable roles and long‑term career development.”
A national database of live opportunities in the tourism industry is available at tourismcareers.ie.
IHF People Day is kindly supported by Alkimii, Fáilte Ireland and the IHF Skillnet.
Photo: Joe Conroy
