Established in 2022, the award celebrates an Institute of Hospitality Fellow who has made a ‘significant and lasting’ impact on both the Institute and the wider hospitality sector.

Each nomination is proposed by members of the IoH College of Fellows and assessed by an independent panel of senior industry professionals to ensure the highest standards of recognition. The 2025 winner will be revealed at the Institute’s Fellows’ Dinner at the Waldorf Hilton in London and will be added to the honour list.

Robert Richardson FIH MI, chief executive of the Institute of Hospitality, said: “This award represents the very best of our profession. Each finalist has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing hospitality, supporting their peers and highlighting the industry as a rewarding and sustainable career path. All the finalists should be extremely proud to have been recognised for their achievements and commitment to excellence by their fellow professionals.”

The shortlisted finalists for the Fellows’ Outstanding Contribution Award 2025 are:

• Danny Pecorelli FIH - managing director, Exclusive Collection
• Caitriona Lennox FIH - head of Springboard Northern Ireland, Springboard Charity UK
• Christopher Cowdray FIH - company president, Dorchester Collection
• Jonathan Foot FIH - director skills & early careers, Compass Group UK & Ireland
• Professor Ioannis S. Pantelidis FIH - head of department of hospitality tourism and events management, Ulster University
• Raymond Blanc OBE FIH – chef patron, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons
• Chris Eigelaar FIH MI - managing director, The Belfry Hotel & Resort
• Harry Murray MBE FIH MI - hospitality coach & mentor/ president of HOSPA
• Robin Sheppard FIH – president, Bespoke Hotels
• Kan Koo MBE FIH – director & partner, Cosmo Restaurant Group