Conor O'Donovan, chief executive of Sefton Collection, has built a growing hospitality portfolio across Liverpool, with three of his venues recently shortlisted for the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards 2026.
The 43-year-old, who lives in the city centre, moved from Dublin to Liverpool in 2002 to study Business at John Moores University. He launched his own business in 2007, starting with an online hotel booking company and a serviced accommodation management operation. A year later, he acquired his first boutique hotel, which had just 15 bedrooms.
A Growing Portfolio
The Sefton Collection now spans hotels, accommodation, pubs and event spaces across the city, including Dicey Reilly's in Wolstenholme Square, Masons on Seel Street, Sefton Park Hotel, Ropewalks Hotel, and 19 Duke Street, as well as event spaces The Clubhouse and Baby Clubhouse. The first hotel acquired remains part of the business, although it has since been converted into self-catering accommodation.
O'Donovan told the ECHO: "I was excited to move to Liverpool. I had family here and, when I was finishing my degree, the Capital of Culture was beginning to roll around. I could see people investing in the city and so much change happening. I knew it would become the place to be."
Navigating Rising Costs
The business has experienced strong growth recently, but O'Donovan acknowledged the challenges facing the hospitality industry, including rising operating costs, increased wages, business rates, and higher utility and produce costs. He said the answer is to offer customers a reason to return.
"I visualised where I wanted the business to go, but you can never fully imagine exactly where you'll end up. We've experienced huge growth over the last five years, particularly since COVID," he said. "The last five years have also been very difficult. Overheads have continued to rise, from payroll and business rates to utilities and the cost of produce. What you need to do is differentiate yourself and offer people a great experience. If you offer people a great experience, they'll keep coming back. That's how you build genuine loyalty."
Independent Identity and Investment
O'Donovan highlighted the collection's independent identity as a key advantage, allowing the business to respond quickly to changing expectations. This approach is reflected in Dicey Reilly's, which opened in April 2024 and aims to replicate the welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Irish pub.
"We wanted to create something similar to a really good pub back home. You walk in, get a great pint of Guinness, a lovely sandwich made with fresh ingredients and a warm welcome. That's exactly what we aim to deliver," he said.
The business has continued to invest in its existing venues, with Masons preparing for another refresh and refurbishment work at Sefton Park Hotel nearing completion. O'Donovan said remaining competitive means "never assuming that what worked yesterday will necessarily work tomorrow".
"You have to keep moving. People might have visited somewhere twice and really enjoyed it, but then they want to try something different. You can't afford to stand still," he added. "Research is absolutely key. There's a risk with anything, but if you're passionate about it, give it your best shot and apply yourself. I think Liverpool is very unique. I would never move my businesses away from here. I love to spend a bit more time abroad, but I will always come back to Liverpool."
Award Recognition
Three of O'Donovan's venues have been shortlisted for the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards 2026: Sefton Park Hotel for small accommodation provider of the year, Ropewalks Hotel for large hotel of the year, and Dicey Reilly's for pub of the year.
"To have three of our venues shortlisted for these prestigious awards is a tremendous achievement and something we are incredibly proud of," O'Donovan said. "What makes this particularly special is the recognition across three very different areas of hospitality, demonstrating the breadth of our offering and the individual character of our venues. Liverpool's visitor economy continues to flourish, and we are delighted to play our part in its success."
