UK: Trade association UKHospitality promoted Kate Nicholls to chair the company. Allen Simpson, deputy CEO, will now be CEO.
Nicholls is going to become UKHospitalityThe first full-time paid and salaried chair of the. The changes allow her to spend more time representing the business in both the media and the political landscapes. They will also help deepen government understanding and engagement with the sector.
Simpson, in his role of CEO, will be responsible for the day-to-day running of UKHospitality. Simpson will take over the day-to-day leadership of UKHospitality in his role as CEO.
Currently, the non-executive director is also a board member. Steve Cassidy Will move on to become President
Cassidy: “UKHospitality is a growing organization in terms of influence and membership. UKHospitality could become bigger and better and achieve more faster with the help of a dedicated full-time chairman and CEO.
“Kate has transformed the organisation into a formidable force for the good for the sector, most notably during the worst crisis the industry has ever faced – Covid. Kate and Allen, together, will continue championing the industry and driving change for our members and the UK economy.
Simpson said: “I am excited to take on the role of CEO, and to be able to continue Kate’s work in this important industry. My focus will be to drive growth, services and a platform for success, for – and with – our members. As the economic landscape is rapidly changing, we must take greater control over our own destiny as a group.
Nicholls This new chapter reflects UKHospitality’s impact, its status, and its ambitions. It continues to be a vital voice in our important and broad sector. We have established a strong, effective influence on the country’s largest economic sector. We also have a place at the top table along with other key business groups when it comes to macro-economic matters.
“Together, we will collaborate with government on some the most pressing development policies for our country and its major industries. Top of my list is to ensure government continues to listen to our calls for sector support, following the £3.4 billion of costs that hit us in April, root and branch reform of the business rates system, as well as building longer-term momentum for the compelling rationale for creating a dedicated VAT rate for hospitality.
She said: “I am looking forward to working even more closely with Allen, as our team delivers an enhanced and new strategy and the maximum positive changes for our sector.”
