The launch of the London chapter of Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals was never meant to be just another networking event. From the moment guests arrived, the energy in the room felt different. Passion, excitement and genuine curiosity shaped conversations as hospitality professionals across finance, technology and operations gathered to celebrate a new chapter for the UK industry. One word surfaced repeatedly throughout the evening: community. Hosted in London, the event brought together hoteliers, consultants, technology partners and industry leaders to focus not on products or sales pitches, but on how the industry can better support,
educate and connect its people.
The idea for the chapter began during conversations at HITEC last year. What started as discussions about gaps in education, collaboration and global connectivity evolved into a formal vision. In the months that followed, a volunteer board was formed, governance and bylaws were established and the chapter reached the membership threshold required to officially launch. Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized collaboration rather than competition with existing industry organizations. The London chapter was positioned as an added layer of value within hospitality, designed to complement the work already happening across the sector.
Like HFTP chapters around the world, the London chapter is led entirely by volunteers. Founding board members Charly Livock, Gavin Allison, Jason Doebrich, Natallie Cobden and Olivia Lord all hold full-time hospitality roles and contribute their time through a shared passion for the industry and a belief in giving back. A major
focus moving forward will be creating education-led, non-soliciting environments where meaningful conversations can happen openly.
The goal is to bring together finance leaders, IT professionals, general managers and operations teams in smaller settings to discuss challenges, share experiences and learn from one another without sales pressure.
The chapter also gives UK hospitality professionals access to a broader global network through HFTP, including internationally recognized education programs, industry insights and relationships with leaders around the world.
Several speakers reflected on how networking, mentorship and industry relationships shaped their own careers. It quickly became clear the chapter is about more than events–it is about creating opportunities for people to learn faster, connect more broadly and grow within one of the world’s most people-driven industries.
Above all, the launch highlighted a strong appetite within hospitality for deeper collaboration, stronger professional communities and more honest conversations about the future of the industry. If the enthusiasm from launch night is any indication, the chapter is already off to a strong start.
