Blog. Spotlight on: Ambassadors Matt Townley & Katie Hogan

We are indebted to the countless individuals and organisations who give up their time to champion HA. Today, we highlight the extraordinary dedication of two such inspirational figures, HA Ambassadors Matt Townley, Group Operations Director, and Katie Hogan, Head of Engagement, Learning & Development at Dakota Hotels.

MT: What prompted Dakota to nominate Hospitality Action as your Charity of the Year?

In the challenging economic climate, we wanted to make sure first and foremost, our industry charity is supported and that we recognise the importance of the work that they do. Hospitality Action's mission to support the people in our profession who have fallen on hard times feels as worthy a cause as any, and is very personal to us. 

MT: As Chair of the Manchester Hoteliers Association (MHA), can you tell us a little about your role and how the Association has supported HA?

As chair of the MHA, my job is to make sure the hoteliers community in Manchester remains one of the most collaborative in the UK. Our association exists to support the people of our industry, a common goal we both share. We benefit from progressive partnerships with local businesses to ensure the hotel community is up to date at all times with the GM business community and offer a market-leading training programme and a one-of-a-kind mentor-mentee programme. The association is committed to supporting local charities and of course, our industry charity, Hospitality Action. Each year, proceeds from our city ball go to Hospitality Action with last year seeing over £16,700 raised. 

KH - How does supporting Hospitality Action align with Dakota’s values and goals?

At Dakota, we very much value our communities, and supporting Hospitality Action allows us to benefit from a far-stretching hospitality network that we can lean on for support. Our internal values, in particular, "Be Your Best Self", which focuses on wellbeing, self-development, and bringing your personality to work, aligns so well with Hospitality Action's mission that it feels like the perfect match. 

KH - Would you encourage others to fundraise for Hospitality Action?

Absolutely! Hospitality Action provides vital assistance to individuals within the hospitality sector, including financial support and mental health services. Fundraising for this cause helps ensure that workers facing hardships receive the support they need, it's a service we hope we'll never have to use but you just never know, and whilst I am in a fortunate enough position to raise funds, I will do my best to. 

MT - Tell us about the Manchester Walk for Wellbeing. How can people take part? 

We are excited to be walking Sale Water Park again this year, the picturesque route is relatively easy going with amazing views and a few ice cream stops along the way! We all meet up at the Boathouse afterwards to celebrate our success and have a well-deserved beverage or two! We would love to have a record number of walkers this year so hope you can join us. Please click here to register and join us for a day of fun and fundraising. 

Profound thanks to Matt and Katie for their tireless support and commitment. If your place of work is considering a Charity of the Year partnership, click here to learn more. #wevegotyou