Howard Field FIH named winner of the Institute of Hospitality’s prestigious Fellows’ Outstanding Contribution Award 2026

Howard Field FIH, Chairman of the Savoy Educational Trust, has been named winner of the Institute of Hospitality’s Fellows’ Outstanding Contribution Award 2026.

The award was presented at the Institute’s annual Fellows’ Dinner, held at Kimpton Fitzroy London in Bloomsbury on Monday 19 October. The evening celebrated exceptional leadership and achievement across the profession and saw 22 new Fellows join the Institute’s now over one thousand strong College of Fellows.

The award recognises Fellows who have made an outstanding contribution to the Institute and the wider hospitality industry, with nominations coming from across the IoH College of Fellows. Seven shortlisted candidates were chosen from the nominations by an independent panel of judges, from which Mr Field was selected as the winner.

The exceptionally high calibre of the shortlisted candidates reflected the depth of talent, dedication and leadership across the hospitality profession. Each has made a valuable contribution to the industry and the Institute, making the final decision a significant recognition of Mr Field’s achievements.

A chartered accountant, Mr Field has held senior hospitality roles in the UK and North America, including Financial Director of the Savoy Group. He founded specialist recruiter FM Recruitment in 1985 and went on to advise investors and hotel operators, as well as serving five years as a Non-Executive Director of Firmdale Hotels.

His contribution to the profession extends well beyond commercial leadership. Appointed a trustee of the Savoy Educational Trust in 2013, Mr Field has served as its Chair of Trustees since 2017, helping guide the Trust’s work to advance hospitality education, training and qualifications across the UK.

Mr Field has also been a passionate advocate for the next generation of hospitality professionals. He held a visiting fellowship at Oxford Brookes University, delivering guest lectures for more than 25 years, and mentored numerous students through the Bacchus Mentoring Programme. His wider industry involvement includes serving on the board of Springboard UK and helping establish HOSPA, where he is a former board member and Honorary Fellow.

Robert Richardson FIH MI Hon DLitt, Chief Executive of the Institute of Hospitality, said:

“Howard’s career is an outstanding example of the leadership, commitment and generosity that make our profession so special. His contribution spans business, education and mentoring, with a lasting impact on the development of hospitality and the people who will shape its future.

“Through his work with the Savoy Educational Trust and his dedication to supporting emerging talent, Howard has demonstrated the importance of investing in people and strengthening our global hospitality community. We are delighted to recognise his achievements with this year’s Fellows’ Outstanding Contribution Award, while celebrating the remarkable contributions of all those shortlisted.”

The Fellows’ Dinner also celebrated the achievements of the 23 newly appointed Fellows, recognising their professional excellence, leadership and contributions to the hospitality sector.

Fellowship of the Institute of Hospitality recognises significant professional achievement and a commitment to advancing the industry. The College of Fellows brings together experienced leaders from across the global hospitality profession, united by a shared commitment to excellence, professional development and supporting the next generation.

The Fellows’ Outstanding Contribution Award celebrates individuals whose work strengthens the profession and embodies the spirit of Fellowship, leadership and exceptional achievement.