Manchester Hoteliers Association (MHA), a collection of 70 of the city’s key hotels, has announced the appointment of Matt Townley, Group Operations Director at Dakota Hotels, to take over as Chair from predecessor, Adrian Ellis.
Townley, who has been with the Dakota group for over six years, has his sights set on breathing new life into the not-for-profit organisation, which boasts members such as The Lowry Hotel, Stock Exchange Hotel, and more.
The MHA exists to support and enhance Manchester’s hospitality industry and raise valuable funds for local and industry charities.
The MHA also encourage and guide the next generation to consider the hospitality profession as a sustainable career option – launching the recently expanded Hospitality Connect programme and the ongoing Mentor/Mentee scheme with Manchester Metropolitan University.
A key figurehead in Manchester’s hospitality industry, Matt is also a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and Chair of the North region which inspires hospitality professionals to perform at their best and earn the recognition they deserve.
On his recent appointment, Matt said:
“Having been a part of the MHA for 8 years, I can confidently say that there is no other organisation that is so passionate about the promotion and development of hospitality and tourism in our region. It’s an honour to have the baton passed on to me, and I will continue to advocate for our vibrant and growing hotel scene in Manchester.
“There are big shoes to fill, and it’s a privilege to receive this opportunity; I look forward to working with my colleagues in Manchester to champion the MHA and raise the profile of the growing hospitality sector in the city region.”
Matt is also one of the small number of UK hoteliers to hold the prestigious Master Innholder (MI) status. The Master Innholders influence standards and extend professionalism across the industry.
The award is offered to prominent hoteliers who have displayed commitment and dedication to promoting best practice the industry.
Upon a successful application and interview for an Innholders Scholarship in 2022, Matt attended Cornell University, New York, USA and completed his signature General Managers Programme, recognised as the world premiere transformational learning experience for hoteliers.
