In this episode of Five Star Conversations, Brendon Granger sits down with Matt Tripolone, Managing Director for Australia and the Pacific at IHG, to explore his remarkable journey into hospitality and his vision for the industry.

Although not formally educated in hospitality, Matt shared how his early experiences working in event management sparked a deep appreciation for the people and connections within the sector. Combining his passion for real estate with the hospitality industry, he joined Accor in 2008, where he was inspired by exceptional mentors and had formative experiences, such as forging close relationships with regional hoteliers that led to transformative projects. Matt reflected on the joy and pride he feels seeing hotel projects evolve from an idea to thriving businesses that deliver memorable guest experiences.

Matt also shared insights into the evolving challenges and opportunities in hospitality, particularly the importance of adapting to the needs of a multi-generational workforce and guest base. He highlighted the need for the industry to position itself as a destination for talent by fostering diversity, innovation, and cross-functional roles to create aspirational career paths. While acknowledging the challenges of implementing sustainability initiatives, especially for older properties, Matt expressed optimism about how creative thinking and partnerships can drive positive change. He emphasized that the industry must embrace change, balance technology as an enabler, and focus on tailoring guest and employee experiences to meet diverse needs.

In closing, Matt shared his passion for the hospitality industry’s ability to create meaningful moments for guests. He recounted a touching personal story about how a simple gesture from a hotel team brought immense joy to his parents during their 60th wedding anniversary celebration. For Matt, it’s these heartfelt, personalized experiences that define true hospitality. He encouraged aspiring hoteliers to embrace the industry’s purpose of bringing smiles to guests’ faces, remarking that if such moments bring joy, then hospitality is undoubtedly the right career path.

Bio

Matt Tripolone - Managing Director - Australasia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies. Based in Sydney, Australia since 2021, he leads the company’s strategic growth, performance and operations in the Australasia & Pacific region.Matt was previously based in Dubai as Vice President of Development for IHG’s Middle East & Africa region since 2018, where he built and led the team that signed17,000 keys, delivering unparalleled growth and signings for the Group, including the first Kimpton in MEA, and the world’s largest Crowne Plaza and Voco hotels in the world.Prior to that, Matt headed development for IHG in Australasia & Japan, where he was responsible for IHG’s growth and doubled the annual signings, including iconicproperties including InterContinental Perth, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour and InterContinental Hayman Island Resort, as wellas the renewal of several strategic portfolios for the group.He joined IHG in 2014 from Accor Hotels where he held the role of General Manager, Development – Pacific, since 2008. Prior to that Matt has worked for a number of leading companies specialising in development, planning and acquisition including Scanna Developments and Urbis.Matt holds a Bachelor of Arts and Masters in Urban Planning and Development from the University of Sydney.#HospitalityIndustry #GuestExperience #FutureOfHospitality #InnovationInHospitality #CareerAdvice #HospitalityLeaders

Podcast Contact Details:

Email: Brendon@Technology4hotels.com.au

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Phone: +61 2 8317 4000

Phone: 1300 503 657 (Australia only)

Web: www.Technology4Hotels.com.au