Nicky Cassidy appointed president of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation
Cassidy Hospitality Group chief executive Nicky Cassidy has been appointed NIHF president, moving from vice-president into a region-wide representative role.
Sarah Shaw
3 min read
Nicky Cassidy, chief executive of Cassidy Hospitality Group, has been appointed president of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF), taking on a representative role for the region’s accommodation sector.
The group confirmed the appointment on 15 October, recognising his experience and contribution to hospitality. Cassidy moves into the presidency having previously served as the federation’s vice-president, bringing the perspective of an Enniskillen-based operator to an organisation whose work spans hotels, guesthouses and other serviced accommodation businesses.
From Fermanagh operations to industry representation
Cassidy leads a business with interests across accommodation, food and beverage, nightlife and retail. Cassidy Hospitality Group’s portfolio includes the Westville Hotel, a four-star boutique property in Enniskillen with 28 rooms and suites, alongside Enniskillen Watersedge Apartments.
Its other businesses include The Firehouse Bar & Grill, The Crowes Nest, Industry Nightclub and Gourmet Grocer. That mix gives his professional background relevance beyond the hotel bedroom, encompassing businesses that contribute to how visitors spend their time and money in a destination.
His previous NIHF vice-presidency also means he arrives with experience inside the organisation. This is a move into broader industry representation for an established hospitality business leader, with a remit extending across Northern Ireland.
A member-led role
The NIHF describes its purpose as representing and supporting members’ business interests. Its activities include reviewing issues affecting hotels and the wider hospitality industry, engaging with government and the Northern Ireland Assembly, and working with partners on the conditions needed for tourism development.
Incorporated in 1999 to focus on the accommodation sector, the federation operates through a dedicated executive team and an elected, voluntary non-executive board drawn from the industry. The presidency sits within that member-led structure, alongside the executive team led by chief executive Janice Gault.
For operators, the significance lies in having their practical business experience represented in discussions that reach beyond any individual property. Cassidy’s appointment brings a Fermanagh perspective to that work, while the federation’s responsibilities remain region-wide.
Leadership with a people agenda
The federation’s existing work also provides a direct connection to hospitality careers. Its 2026 Rising Stars initiative, delivered with Alkimii and Excel Recruitment, recognised 14 emerging professionals across roles including front office, food and beverage, kitchens, talent and marketing.
Among those named was Erin Higgins, listed by the federation as head of marketing at the Westville Hotel and by Cassidy Hospitality Group as its group head of marketing. The programme illustrates the breadth of hotel careers that industry representation can help make more visible.
The appointment announcement did not set out a detailed presidential programme or term length. For now, Cassidy takes on an established platform for member advocacy, partnership and career recognition. The practical measure of his presidency will be how that platform continues to serve accommodation businesses and the people working within them.
