Hall Of Fame

Arthur Gillis

Platinum Hospitality Holdings

Arthur Gillis is a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry, with over 40 years of experience. He spent 30 years with Protea Hotels, serving as CEO for 26 of those years. Under his leadership, Gillis grew Protea Hotels from 4 hotels to over 120 properties across 7 African countries, making it the largest hotel group on the continent.

In 2014, Arthur facilitated the sale of Protea Hotels to Marriott International, recognising the company’s unrealised potential for further expansion in Africa. He then transitioned to his current role as CEO of Platinum Hospitality Holdings, a hotel ownership company.

Throughout his illustrious career, Arthur has established himself as a titan of industry. His hands-on experience, coupled with formal training, have solidified his reputation as a visionary leader in the hospitality sector, with a significant impact on the South African economy.

Clifford Ross is a distinguished veteran of the hospitality industry, having spent over three decades with the City Lodge Hotel Group. He joined the company in 1987 and went on to drive the expansion of the group’s portfolio to 61 hotels across six African countries during his tenure.

Under Clifford’s visionary leadership, City Lodge became renowned for its commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer service. He was instrumental in establishing the group’s reputation as a market leader, driving strategic initiatives that solidified its foothold across the African continent.

Now after nearly four decades at the helm, Ross is being celebrated as an esteemed industry stalwart. His long-standing dedication and ability to consistently deliver results have cemented his legacy as one of the hospitality sector’s most respected figures.

Clifford Ross

City Lodge Hotels

Nicky Fitzgerald

Angama

Nicky Fitzgerald is a pioneering figure in the safari industry, with a storied 40-year career developing over 60 high-end hotels, restaurants, and lodges across Africa and India. She co-founded the renowned Angama Safari Lodge and played a key role in shaping luxury adventure travel, establishing iconic properties like the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. After four decades of visionary work, Nicky retired in 2022, handing over Angama to its co-founder Steve Mitchell. She continues to serve on Angama’s board and has a role as an advisor to the team. Her legacy as a trailblazer and innovator in the safari industry is legendary.