He is best known for his six-year tenure as CEO of InterContinental Hotels Group plc (2011-2017), having joined the company in 1992 and subsequently serving as Chief Financial Officer (2003-2011). As CEO, Richard oversaw global expansion, navigated profitability through economic cycles, and bolstered the IHG brand in North America and Greater China. A key strategic move under his leadership was the sale of owned hotel properties and the leasing back of flagship sites—unlocking significant capital, streamlining operations, and reinforcing IHG’s asset-light model to drive shareholder value. He also held significant roles in his career such as being Chair of HBX Group International and a Non-Executive Director of the Mandarin Oriental International Ltd.

Richard began his career by qualifying as a Chartered Accountant with KPMG in 1985, followed by seven years in investment banking at Hill Samuel Bank in both London and New York. He later held senior finance and commercial roles at IHG before rising to the top position.

He brings deep cross-sector expertise in:

• Hospitality & global consumer services – scaling hotel and travel platforms through brand positioning, digital distribution, and cross-border growth

• Board governance & committee leadership – chairing audit and nomination committees across public companies and educational institutions

• Strategic financial management – leading public-to-private financing, IPO oversight, and investor communication in global equity markets

• Institutional outreach & industry advocacy – involvement with the World Travel & Tourism Council and education governance at the University of Manchester

Educated in Economics at the University of Manchester (BA Hons), Richard is a Chartered Accountant (ICAEW). Renowned for his measured intelligence, stakeholder fluency, and brand stewardship, he provides insightful mentorship in navigating transformation, boardroom governance, and global value creation.