NIHF Lunch highlights ‘people-first’ growth message
Francisco Macedo, COO of the Hospitality arm of Ocubis, shares global leadership insights with Northern Ireland’s hotels, hospitality and tourism sector
Members from across Northern Ireland’s hotels, hospitality and wider tourism sector gathered at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, for the latest Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) Member Lunch, which placed leadership culture, talent development and sustainable growth firmly at the centre of industry discussion.
Held in the Penthouse Suite at the Europa Hotel, the lunch brought members together with an opportunity to discuss trading, network and catch up after a busy festive season. The event included a conversation-led session chaired by industry expert and professional compere Tim Browne, with contributions from NIHF President Vicky Green and special guest speaker Francisco Macedo, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Hospitality arm of Ocubis, which includes Wilderness Reserve and Pavilion Clubs.
With more than 25 years’ experience across the US, South America, Africa, Europe and the UK, Francisco is recognised as an international hospitality leader with a strong track record in complex hotel openings, acquisitions and brand repositioning, working across both established and emerging tourism markets.
In his current role as Chief Operating Officer of the Hospitality arm of Ocubis, he oversees Wilderness Reserve and Pavilion Clubs, with a clear focus on building high-performing teams, strong service cultures and operational models that deliver commercial performance while enhancing the visitor and guest experience.
Previously, as Senior Vice President of International Operations for Iconic Luxury Hotels, part of L&R Hotels, he led several high-profile projects, including the launch of Palm House Palm Beach, the acquisition and repositioning of Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort, and the transformation of Gran Marbella Resort and Beach Club.
A Master Innholder, Hotel Cateys Manager of the Year recipient and Cornell University alumnus, Francisco is also widely recognised for his commitment to developing the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders.
Speaking at the event, Francisco Macedo said:
“In every market I have worked in, the consistent differentiator has been people. Beautiful buildings and strong brands matter but it is engaged teams, clear purpose and a genuine sense of belonging that create exceptional guest experiences and long-term performance for hospitality and tourism businesses alike.”
The discussion explored the realities of leading through periods of change, the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention, and the importance of investing in future leaders at every level to support a competitive and resilient tourism economy.
NIHF President Vicky Green highlighted the value of the event for the local industry, adding:
“Events like this are invaluable for our hotels, hospitality and tourism sector. They allow operators to step back from day-to-day pressures, hear global perspectives and take practical insights back into their own businesses. By bringing people together, we can collectively raise standards, develop talent and ensure our industry remains competitive, resilient and an employer of choice.”
The NIHF Member Lunch forms part of the Federation’s ongoing programme of engagement events, designed to connect operators, suppliers and industry leaders, while sharing best practice across Northern Ireland’s hotels, hospitality and tourism sector.
