Hospitality Ulster has appointed Michael Cadden, Managing Director of Pat’s Bar Enniskillen, the Lusty Beg Island Resort, and the Enniskillen Hotel, as its new Chair, replacing Stephen Magorrian of the Horatio Group following the conclusion of his term. Colin Johnston, Managing Director of the Galgorm Collection, has been named Vice Chair, replacing Cadden in his former position.
The appointments were confirmed following Hospitality Ulster’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held today in the Enniskillen Hotel, Fermanagh where members discussed the opportunities and ongoing challenges facing the sector.
Hospitality Ulster represents thousands of businesses across Northern Ireland, employing tens of thousands of people and contributing over £2 billion annually to the economy. The organisation continues to press for action on key issues such as energy costs, VAT competitiveness, and business rates reform to secure the long-term vitality of the sector.
The new leadership takes office against a backdrop of sustained pressures that have defined the hospitality landscape in 2025. Spiralling energy prices, increasing operational costs such as wage and National Insurance contributions rises, and a lack of government supports including business and VAT rates have squeezed already tight margins.
Michael Cadden, Chair, Hospitality Ulster, said:
“It is an honour to take up the role of Chair at such a pivotal time. Our sector has shown remarkable resilience and innovation, but we continue to face significant challenges – from workforce recruitment to high operating costs. Working closely with Stephen Magorrian in my time as Vice Chair, I have developed a full understanding of the challenges facing all of our members, from pubs to restaurants to hotels.
“Working with both our executive team and our members, I look forward to driving forward practical solutions to these challenges and ensuring that hospitality remains a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy and tourism offering.”
Colin Johnston, Vice Chair, Hospitality Ulster, said:
“I am pleased to support Michael and the wider board in representing this vibrant industry. Our hospitality businesses are among the best in these islands, and we must ensure they have the right conditions to flourish. Together, we will strongly put forward the views of our members, who live the reality of the industry every day and best understand the policy interventions needed to support the industry.”
Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster, said:
“I would like to congratulate Michael and Colin on their appointments and extend my heartfelt thanks to Stephen on his term as Chair. Both Michael and Colin bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the pressures and potential within our industry. Their leadership will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the headwinds of rising costs, labour shortages and the need for a dedicated hospitality strategy.”