AHA CEO Ian Horne announces retirement after 31 years

SA’s Australian Hotels Association chief Ian Horne, who helped champion the industry through the pandemic, is ending his 31-year run.

The longstanding chief of the state’s influential Australian Hotels Association, Ian Horne, has announced his plan to step down from the role in July.

Mr Horne, who helped champion the industry through the pandemic, has led the association for 31 of the past 38 years, separated by a seven-year stint leading the Motor Trade Association from 1998 to 2005.

The AHA’s state president, David Basheer, has advised members of Mr Horne’s plan, which allows time for a transition to a new chief executive without disrupting business activities.

“Ian Horne’s 31-year contribution to the tourism and hospitality industry and AHA SA, particularly in South Australia and indeed the wider business community, is unrivalled,” Mr Basheer said.

Australian Hotels Association CEO Ian Horne is retiring. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Emma Brasier

“Our industry owes Ian enormous gratitude. He stands aside as CEO of AHA SA leaving an extraordinary legacy for the industry of stability, influence and increased economic contribution to our state.”

AHA SA’s new chief executive will be determined following a search of internal and external candidates.

Mr Horne will still be involved in the association and hotel industry through various projects and advisory support.

He plans to focus on other interests and commitments, such as business events and broader tourism and hospitality projects.