Donnington Group managing director becomes Master of historic hospitality company

Andrew McKenzie will use his 12-month tenure to champion the hospitality industry and promote career development opportunities for young people.

Andrew McKenzie, managing director of the Donnington Group, has been installed as Master of The Worshipful Company of Innholders, a City of London livery company supporting the hospitality industry.

Andrew took up the role at a ceremony at Innholders’ Hall on 6 October 2026, choosing ‘Hospitality Matters’ as the theme for his year in office.

The company promotes the modern hospitality industry, offers fellowship to its members and supports hospitality professionals through scholarships funded by the Innholders’ Charitable Foundation.

Andrew is the first Master to have benefited from a Master Innholders scholarship, having experienced its impact on his own career.

During his year as Master, he plans to highlight the work of the Master Innholders and promote the scholarships available to young managers in the hospitality industry.

Speaking about the career opportunities the sector can offer, Andrew said: ‘Hotels have long offered young people opportunities for pathways to senior management roles simply through endeavour and hard work – something we must continue to champion.’

Andrew also wants to highlight the contribution hospitality makes to the UK economy. The figures cited in his appointment announcement state that the industry is responsible for 3.5 million jobs, accounts for one in 10 UK jobs and generates £54 billion annually.

He said: ‘Hospitality is responsible for 3.5 million jobs, the country’s third largest employment sector, amounting to 1 in 10 UK jobs, generating £54 billion annually – hospitality really does matter.’

Andrew began his career at the age of 13 as a hall porter at the Royal Hotel in Bridge of Allan, before embarking on a management career that took him across the UK.

He has been managing director of the Donnington Group for 28 years. Based in Newbury and Bedford, the group operates a collection of hotels, spas, golf courses, restaurants and wedding venues, including its flagship Donnington & Co. Hotel, Spa and Golf Course in Newbury.

Reflecting on his appointment, Andrew said: ‘It is a huge honour and a privilege to be given this role and certainly not something I ever thought of when embarking on my career all these years ago. It proves the hotel industry is indeed a meritocracy!’

The Worshipful Company of Innholders received its first Royal Charter in 1514 and continues to support the hospitality industry through its work and scholarship programmes.

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