A Strong Voice for Irish Hotels & Guesthouses

Matt O'Connor, IHF President

The President of the IHF is elected by the members at the AGM and serves a two-year term of office. Elected in February 2026, Matt is the 41st President of the Irish Hotels Federation, succeeding Michael Magner.

A native of Co. Wexford, Mr O’Connor is the Managing Director of the Mullingar Park Hotel, having been with the hotel since it first opened its doors 23 years ago. He has been an active member of the IHF since 2008, having served as Chair of the Midlands Branch and most recently as National Vice President.

His extensive contribution to the Federation includes long-standing membership of the National Council and Management Committee.

Click HERE to view media statement announcing Matt's election.

Paul Gallagher, Chief Executive

As Chief Executive, Paul oversees the strategic direction and operation of the IHF, working closely with industry partners, Government and State agencies on behalf of the hotels sector to ensure the right conditions are in place to support the growth and development of Irish tourism and hospitality.

A past President of the IHF and former Chair of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC), Paul was previously General Manager of Buswells Hotel, Dublin for 27 years. He is a Government appointee to Tourism Ireland as a Non-Executive Director and has previously served on numerous Government taskforces, including the Tourism Recovery Oversight Group, the Brexit Taskforce, the Advisory Group on Small Business, the Tourism Recovery Taskforce and Grow Dublin Taskforce.

Paul is a fellow of the Irish Hospitality Institute and holds a Master’s Degree in Business and Hospitality as a graduate of the University of Galway and Shannon College of Hotel Management.

Click HERE to view media statement announcing Paul's appointment.