Hospitality leader awarded Honorary Doctorate by University

The University awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Hospitality to Robert Richardson, Chief Executive of the Institute of Hospitality, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to hospitality education, professional development and workforce progression across the UK and internationally.

Robert received the honour during the University's graduation ceremonies, celebrating a career that has spanned hospitality operations, business leadership, higher education and professional body leadership.

On receiving his Honorary Doctorate Robert Richardson said:

"Receiving this honorary doctorate is an extraordinary privilege and one that I accept with immense gratitude and humility. To be recognised by a university that has demonstrated such a strong commitment to hospitality education and employability makes this honour especially meaningful.

"Throughout my career, I have been passionate about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to learn, develop and build a rewarding career within our profession.

"This recognition is not simply a reflection of my own journey. It belongs to the many colleagues, mentors, educators, volunteers and members who have supported, challenged and inspired me over the years. I have been fortunate to work alongside remarkable people who share a belief that hospitality is one of the greatest professions in the world.

"My sincere thanks go to Professor Roya Rahimi for her nomination, to Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prashant Pillai MBE for his support, and to the University of Wolverhampton for this incredible honour. I hope this recognition helps shine a light on hospitality as a profession of opportunity, purpose and lifelong learning, and inspires others to see the extraordinary careers our industry makes possible."

As Chief Executive of the Institute of Hospitality, the global professional body for hospitality management, Robert led an organisation representing more than 17,000 members worldwide and supporting the accreditation of hospitality, tourism and business management programmes delivered across 24 countries.

A professionally trained chef, Robert built his career through a range of operational and leadership roles, including 12 years as a hotel general manager, before becoming one of the sector's most influential champions for professional standards, lifelong learning and career development. Since becoming Chief Executive in 2021, he oversaw a period of sustained growth for the Institute, strengthening partnerships between universities, employers, government and professional bodies.

Widely recognised for his leadership and commitment to inclusion, Robert has worked to improve access to professional development opportunities and support social mobility within the hospitality sector. Under his leadership, the Institute delivered initiatives aimed at removing barriers to career progression, supporting learners facing financial challenges and promoting diversity, inclusion and belonging across the profession.

His influence extended beyond industry into higher education, where he served as a Visiting Professor at Ulster University Business School and regularly contributed to academic conferences, teaching and knowledge exchange activities. He became a respected voice on leadership, employability, workforce development and the responsible use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

Robert also developed a strong relationship with the University of Wolverhampton through a strategic partnership between the Institute of Hospitality and the University of Wolverhampton Business School. The collaboration supported professional accreditation, student development, employability opportunities and closer engagement between academia and industry. He contributed as a guest speaker at University events and helped strengthen links between students, academics and hospitality professionals.

His contributions to the hospitality profession were recognised with several industry honours, including the Freedom of the City of London for services to hospitality. He also provided expert insight to national discussions on skills development, workforce practice and the future of work through his involvement with the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modernising Employment.

Professor Roya Rahimi, who nominated Robert for the award, said:

"Robert has been a tireless advocate for hospitality education and professional development throughout his career. His ability to bring together industry, education and policy has created opportunities for thousands of students and professionals while helping to raise standards across the sector. His impact has been felt not only nationally but across the global hospitality community."

The Honorary Doctorate recognised Robert's exceptional achievements in hospitality leadership, education and professional development, as well as his commitment to creating inclusive pathways into rewarding careers and strengthening connections between higher education and industry.