By Angela Green
Pride Month has kicked off today with Checking-IN’s inaugural Top 50 LGBTQIA+ Hospitality Champions list for 2023 being announced, which includes IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI.
Commenting on the news Richardson said: “I am delighted and humbled to be recognised on Checking-IN’s 50 LGBTQ+ Champions in Hospitality 2023 list.
“As an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community I recognise that allyship is the backbone of EDI, and championing EDI within the hospitality industry is a personal passion for me, and a commitment by the Institute of Hospitality to continue to build a fully inclusive industry.
“Congratulations to all those recognised on the list. Together we are making a difference.”
Checking-IN, which was set up for the hospitality industry’s community of LGBTQIA+ professionals and their allies, held a celebratory event last night, to celebrate the 2023 list of champions.
Other IoH members who also made the list were:
- Eugenio Pirri FIH, Chief Executive Officer, Dorchester Collection
- Kurt Macher MIH, General Manager, Shangri-La The Shard, London
- Derek Rostel FIH, Regional Director of People and Culture, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
- Bob van den Oord FIH, Managing Director, The Langham, London
- Michael Bonsor FIH, Managing Director, Rosewood London
- Tom Crocker MIH, Business Director, Aramark
- Simon Lewis FIH, IoH London committee member
Congratulations all.
The full Top 50 LGBTQIA+ Champions List for 2023 is here.
Eugenio Pirri FIH, newly appointed CEO of the Dorchester Collection who nominated Robert as an LGBTQIA+ champion, siad: “Robert had always been a strong ally and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community. He understands the importance of creating diverse and respectful working environments that allow people and our industry to achieve unlimited potential. I am proud to acknowledge Robert and all his efforts. He truly is a champion.”
Dorothea Jones MIH, IoH Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, who attended last night’s celebration on behalf of the IoH commented: “As allies, we must continue to amplify all LGBTQIA+ voices and messages, not just during Pride Month, but all year round. No one should be afraid to use their voice or platform. Allyship is a lifelong commitment which will help bring about positive and necessary change, which we must continue to strive for.”
Find out more about Checking-IN here.
https://www.hospitalityandcateringnews.com/2023/05/kitchen-porters-club-job-of-the-week-30k-plus-role-at-royal-automobile-club/