The Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Deirdre Fitzsimons MCIPD as Director of People Services. A dedicated and passionate HR professional, Deirdre brings over 20 years’ experience working in Hospitality and Human Resources with hotel groups including the iNua Collection, TIFCO Hotels and Radisson Hotels.

As Director of People services, Deirdre will play an integral role in supporting the IHF’s strategic vision by developing and driving high-quality HR practices and people development initiatives for members of the Federation, working closely with industry partners.

A graduate of Shannon College of Hotel Management, Deirdre’s professional development has been reinforced with educational achievements, including, a BA in Personnel Management and Business Studies from GMIT, an MBS in HR Strategies from DCU, and most recently, a Diploma in Employment Law from the Law Society.

Speaking on Deirdre's appointment, IHF President Denyse Campbell shared, “We are thrilled to welcome Deirdre to the IHF team in this new and important role for our sector which will focus on Shaping Brighter Futures for our people, supporting career development and promoting continuous improvement within our industry. Alongside Deirdre, we look forward to supporting, developing and retaining the fantastic people at the heart of every hotel and guesthouse as well as attracting the next generation of talent into our sector.”

Commenting on her role Deirdre Fitzsimons said, “I’m incredibly excited to join the Irish Hotels Federation as Director of People Services. I have experienced firsthand the fantastic training opportunities and varied career paths that hospitality has to offer and I look forward to working with member hotels and guesthouses across the country to support rewarding careers for people in hospitality”.