The Hotel Designs Summit takes place on 12-13 September at Radisson Blu Hotel, London Stansted, and as well as fantastic networking opportunities and invaluable meetings, attendees will have the chance to hear talks from influential figures from the hotel and hospitality industry.
One of this year’s speakers is Peter Ducker, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality. Peter was born into a hotel family and has remained in the industry ever since. Ahead of the event in September, he speaks to us about his talk…
Q. What’s your background and career in the industry?
A. Having been born into the industry, I went on to graduate from Oxford Polytechnic (now Brookes…) in Hospitality Management. I then worked in hotel management before moving into sales and marketing. I then held board positions at various hotel companies; both private and public.
With this experience, I then launched and managed a hotel reservations company, which I sold in 2005. Since then, I have advised hotel companies on sales, marketing and distribution before taking my current role as CEO at the Institute of Hospitality.
Q. What will you be covering in your talk at the Hotel Designs Summit?
A. I’m planning to review the important “take-aways” from the conference and draw the themes together for attendees.
Q. What, in your opinion, are the current three most important challenges the industry is facing right now?
A. Undoubtedly the fallout from Brexit. Beyond that, cost inflation for operators as a result of the National Living Wage and the Apprentice Levy and thirdly the recruitment and retention of key staff in important roles.
Q. Where do you see the future of the industry headed?
A. Growth across the sectors is going to be one of the key issues. Also, the ongoing drive for standards will play a big role as well as the ongoing pressure on the independent sector from brands, particularly in the restaurant sector.
Q. Why do you think events like the Hotel Designs Summit are important?
A. With so much change and uncertainty in this current climate, it is vital that hospitality professionals meet in different forums to exchange views and seek inspiration.
Q. And lastly, what piece of advice would you give to hospitality professionals?
A. Make sure you remain focussed on your key metrics, keep investing in upskilling your staff, and always keep your eye on industry trends.
hoteldesignssummit.co.uk
If you would like more information on attending the event, please contact Jade Oliver on j.oliver@forumevents.co.uk or 01992 374054
