Hoteliers focus on the human workplace in the age of AI
More than 300 hoteliers, including general managers, owners and HR professionals from across Ireland, gathered at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise for the fifth annual Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) People Day Conference.
This year's event, The Human Workplace in the Age of AI, explored how technology, shifting workforce expectations and new models of leadership are reshaping the future of work.
Through keynote talks, panels and interactive sessions, speakers explored how leaders can build workplaces where people can truly thrive.
Speakers included Niall Breslin, author and thought leader in mental fitness; Dr Lollie Mancey, anthropologist and AI ethicist; Dermot Whelan, broadcaster and meditation expert; Dr Mary Collins, leadership and wellbeing specialist and Cleo McCormack, global head of organisational development, Version 1.
Speaking at the event, IHF President Matt O’Connor highlighted the essential role of HR leaders in shaping workplaces that support personal growth, inclusion and innovation.
“At the heart of every great hotel and guesthouse is our people – the many thousands who choose a career in our sector. Irish hospitality is recognised worldwide for its warmth, professionalism and service excellence, and that reputation is built entirely on the dedication of our teams," he said.
"We sit at the heart of our communities, employing over 69,000 people directly and supporting over 270,000 livelihoods within our wider tourism industry".
“As our workplaces evolve, so too is our approach to leadership and people development. This is a key focus for Irish hotels, creating environments where people feel valued, supported and equipped to grow. Today’s conference is about giving our people and culture leaders the insight, tools and confidence to shape those workplaces".
“One concept that really struck me today is the importance of ‘mattering’. The desire to feel that our work, and our lives, have meaning is something I think we can all relate to. Creating an environment where people know that they matter, and where the significance of individual effort is genuinely recognised, is a simple but powerful goal for any workplace to strive toward.”
Commenting on the breadth of career opportunities within tourism and hospitality, O’Connor noted: “A career in tourism offers remarkable flexibility and a wide range of pathways for people at every stage of life.
Pictured at IHF People Day 2026 are speakers, sponsors and organisers: Chris Kilpatrick; Dermot Whelan; Dervla O’Neill, IHF Skillnet; Jonathan Healy; Niall Breslin; Deirdre Fitzsimons, IHF Director of People Services; Paul Gallagher, IHF CEO; Matt O’Connor, IHF President; Michael Quinn, Failte Ireland; Cleo McCormack; Ronan McAuley, Alkimii; Dr. Mary Collins; Yvonne O’Malley; Loretta Dignam; Margaret McCague and Una Crilly.
"As workforce expectations shift, hotels and guesthouses are uniquely positioned to offer meaningful work, adaptable roles and long‑term career development.”
A national database of live opportunities in the tourism industry is available at tourismcareers.ie.
Photo: Pictured at IHF People Day 2026: Ronan McAuley, Alkimii; Dervla O’Neill, IHF Skillnet; Deirdre Fitzsimons, IHF Director of People Services; Matt O’Connor, IHF President; Sarah Dolly, Failte Ireland and Paul Gallagher, IHF Chief Executive. (Pic: Supplied)
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