Andrew Iro Okungbowa 
Hotel Managers School (HMS) named Dr Michael Pinder as Chairman of its Advisory Board. This development was disclosed in a press statement signed by Mr Olugbenga Omotayo Sunday, who is the Chairman, Board of Directors for Hotel Managers School.
In the statement, Sunday noted, “It is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Dr Michael Pinder as Chairman of the Hotel Managers School Advisory Board. Dr Pinder’s exceptional leadership and expertise in the hospitality industry make him an ideal fit for this role.
“His wealth of experience and network will provide invaluable guidance as we strive to achieve our vision of becoming a premier African institution for hotel management education. We are confident that his contributions will enhance our curriculum, learning methodologies, and strategic initiatives, ultimately benefiting our students and the hospitality industry at large.’’
Pinder, who resumes his new position next week, is presently the General Manager of JS Signature Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He brings over three decades of hospitality expertise to his new role as his leadership and industry insights will guide HMS towards achieving its vision as a premier institute for hotel management education in Africa.
HMS, according to Sunday, ‘‘is committed to providing high-quality, flexible, and practical education to meet the needs of current and aspiring hotel managers in Africa. The institution’s core values of excellence, integrity, innovation, and collaboration align with Pinder’s professional standards.
“We are excited to have Pinder on board and look forward to his leadership in shaping the future of hotel management education in Africa.
‘‘In due time, we will unveil other esteemed members of the Advisory Board, who will join Pinder in providing expert guidance and industry insights. Together, we will ensure that Hotel Managers School remains at the forefront of hospitality education, addressing the industry’s talent gap and equipping professionals with the skills to drive business success.
As Chairman of the Advisory Board, Pinder will provide expert guidance on emerging trends and best practices in the hospitality industry. He will lead bi-annual Advisory Board meetings, collaborate with the Board of Directors, and represent HMS in industry events.
Pinder’s responsibilities also include shaping HMS’s curriculum, learning methodologies, and strategic initiatives. His expertise will ensure HMS programs remain relevant and effective in preparing students for successful hotel management careers.
HMS offers various learning options, including instructor-led courses, self-paced courses, blended learning programs, workshops, seminars, certification programs, and mentorship initiatives. Pinder’s guidance will enhance these programmes.
The appointment is for a five-year tenure, renewable upon mutual agreement.
Pinder in his acceptance notice, said, “I’m honoured to join HMS’s Advisory Board. I look forward to contributing to the institution’s success and shaping the future of hotel management education in Africa.”
Sunday disclosed that Hotel Managers School will play a vital role in addressing the hospitality industry’s talent gap in Africa. This role, with Ppinder’s leadership, he said would further strengthen HMS’s position as a thought leader in hospitality education.
‘‘Africa’s hospitality and tourism sectors are experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing tourism demand and infrastructure development. HMS is poised to equip professionals with skills to drive business success,’’ he said.
Adding, Pinder’s appointment reinforces HMS’s commitment to industry relevance and academic excellence. His network and expertise will enhance the institution’s reputation and impact.
