Belfast’s three city Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) – Linen Quarter BID, Belfast One, and Destination CQ appointed Michael Stewart as Belfast City Centre’s first Night Czar in June 2024, tasking him with the crucial role of enhancing and leading on the night-time economy.

Michael’s career spans more than three decades including leading roles in some of the city’s most successful bars and clubs. He is currently the Director of Common Market Belfast and runs his own consultancy and training business for the hospitality trade, Bar Czar Limited.

Michael also served two-terms as the President of Belfast Chamber and is currently Board Director for Eastside Partnership – a local charity leading the regeneration of East Belfast.

His extensive experience will lend itself to the Night Czar position focusing on enhancing, coordinating, and advocating for the city’s night-time strategy in terms of safety, transport, and business.

The Night Czar role is funded by Belfast’s three city BIDs and supported by the multi-agency Purple Flag steering group, which includes key stakeholders such as Belfast Chamber, Hospitality Ulster, Belfast City Council, PSNI, SOS Bus, Free the Night and Translink.