World Travel Market, the leading global event for the travel industry, has confirmed world-renowned hotelier Sir David Michels and other high-profile figures as speakers for its hotels programme.
Sir David Michels FIH is President of the Institute of Hospitality and will be able to draw on his more than 40 years of experience in the industry while speaking to delegates at WTM 2013.
A co-founder of the Michels & Taylor hotel consultancy, he was knighted in 2006 for services to the hotel and catering industry. Previous roles have included that of Deputy Chairman of both Marks & Spencer plc and easyJet plc, and he retired as Chief Executive of Hilton Group plc in 2007.
Sir David is speaking on the Investment & Finance session, which will investigate strategies that investors and owners can use to stay ahead of the game.
As well as Sir David, the other senior, respected professionals who will take part in the debate are:
• Arthur de Haast FIH, Chairman Hotels and Hospitality and Lead Director, International Capital Group
• Russell Kett FIH, Managing Director, HVS International
• Peter Ducker FIH, Chief Executive, Institute of Hospitality
Organised by the Institute of Hospitality, the Investment & Finance session is from 11am to 12pm on Wednesday 6 November, in South Gallery Rooms 15 & 16.
The first session The HR Challenge in Emerging Markets takes place on Tuesday 5 November and looks at the breath-taking speed of hotel development in growing markets – and how this means well-trained managers are increasingly in demand.
The three speakers will be Professor Peter A Jones MBE FIH, International Hospitality Educator; Roshan R. Perera FIH, General Manager, Union Resorts Ltd/Union Resorts & Spas (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka; and Peter Ducker FIH, Chief Executive, Institute of Hospitality.
The session is organised by the Institute of Hospitality and will take place from 11am to 12pm, in South Gallery Rooms 15 & 16.
Reed Travel Exhibitions, Senior Director, World Travel Market, Simon Press said: “The hotel industry in Europe and the US is seeing a revival, while emerging markets are forging ahead, so it’s a crucial time to hear from the top experts, who will be gathered at WTM 2013 to share their knowledge and advice.
“We are delighted to have speakers of Sir David’s calibre, who will contribute insightful and inspirational content.
“With such an influential line-up, delegates are sure to learn about the key tactics for success in this rapidly changing marketplace.”
