Hospitality Exchange Programme

Tuesday 15th October 2024

Automation vs Personalisation

09.45 - £45

Is AI an enemy or an asset? How to improve efficiency without losing the human touch, compered by Tim Browne.

Customer Journey
Susanne Williams from Journey on personalisation in the post-search era - key tactics for capturing modern customers.

The Chef's Perspective
Mark Birchall talks about sustainable success, Michelin stars and the importance of the personal touch.

AI for your Business
Ciaran Connolly has the practical guide to help you navigate the AI world.

Leadership Today and Tomorrow
Simon Maguire highlights how leadership has evolved over the last 25 years. Emotional intelligence remains crucial despite technological advances.

Winning Ways
Lunch

13.15 - £60

Tanya Oxtoby, the NI Ladies Football Manager on what makes a winning team. Hosted by Pamela Ballantine, featuring the Rising Star Awards supported by Ulster Bank.

Rising Stars
A celebration of stellar talent; acknowledging their contribution to the future of the sector.

Delegate Lounge
All Day - Free

Networking before and after the seminars.

AGM
15.30 - Free to Members

Annual General Meeting for NIHF Members.

Supported by Calor, Invest NI, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Supported by Ulster Bank, Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities, Classic Drinks, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Sysco.

Official coffee supplier Henderson Foodservice. Official tea supplier SD Bell.

Wednesday 16th October 2024 - AM

Business Breakfast

08.00 - £39

A hearty start to the day with a big breakfast and business update hosted by veteran journalist, Mark Simpson.

Hotel Performance & Forecast
STR data, detail and a dive into the future with Sarah Duignan.

Hotels for Sale
Savills’ hotel specialist, Tom Barrett, looks at a buoyant marketplace.

Managing Change
Adrian Patton, Sumer NI, on selling, skills and succession.

Talking Tourism

10.30 - £30

A reflection on the past and a look to the future: trends, events and sustainable growth.

Tourism 2024
Economist Ana Desmond delves into the economic power of tourism.

25 Years of Tourism
Industry discussion on an incredible journey.

The Rugby World Cup
Yannick Cabrol from EY looks at how big events drive tourism.

Sustainable Growth
Alice Mansergh from Tourism Ireland and John McGrillen from Tourism Northern Ireland discuss managing tourism growth.

Supported by AIB Bank, Percipient, Savills, Sumer NI, STR and Visit Belfast.

Supported by Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

Wednesday 16th October 2024 - PM

Speaker Lunch

13.00 - £60

Richie Murphy, Head Coach at Ulster Rugby on nurturing talent and Grand Slam success.

The Gala Ball

19.30 - £129

Celebrating 25 years with a silver-themed evening. An opportunity to wine, dine and dance the night away.

Supported by McKees Solicitors, Bibendum Wines, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Henderson Foodservice.