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UK: Trade association UKHospitality has promoted CEO Kate Nicholls as chair of the company, with deputy CEO Allen Simpson transitioning to CEO.
Nicholls will become UKHospitality’s first paid and full-time chair. The changes will allow her to dedicate more time representing the industry in both the political and media landscapes, as well as deepen government engagement and understanding of the sector and its challenges.
The day-to-day leadership of UKHospitality will pass to Simpson in his role as CEO. It follows 18 months as deputy CEO, in which time he has led on ESG and conceived and delivered the Social Productivity Index.
At the same time, current non-executive chairman Steve Cassidy will move to become president.
Cassidy said: “UKHospitality has grown incredibly over the last few years in terms of membership, influence and impact. Having both a dedicated, full-time chair and a CEO in place, UKHospitality can become even bigger and better, and go further, faster.
“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. Together, Kate and Allen will continue to champion the industry and drive change for the benefit of our members and the economy of the UK.”
Simpson said: “I’m excited to step up to CEO and to have the opportunity to build further on the team’s significant body of work for this crucial industry, continuing Kate’s momentum. My focus will be to drive growth, services and a platform for success, for – and with – our members. The economic context is shifting fast, and as a sector we need to take greater control of our own destiny.”
Nicholls added: “This new chapter reflects the impact, status and ambition of UKHospitality, which continues to be the vital voice for our broad and important sector. We have established strong and effective influence for the country’s fourth largest economic sector and have a seat at the highest table alongside other core business groups on the macro-economic issues of today.
“Together we will work alongside government on some of the most pressing developmental policies for this country and its key 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.
“I look forward to working ever-more closely in partnership with Allen as our team delivers a new and emboldened strategy, and maximum positive change for our sector,” she said.
Highlights:
• Kate Nicholls has become UKHospitality’s first full-time, paid chair, stepping away from her CEO role to focus on political and media influence.
• Allen Simpson has been promoted to CEO, following a successful term as deputy CEO leading ESG efforts and strategic initiatives.
• Steve Cassidy has moved to president.
• UKHospitality aims to deepen government engagement, shape national policy, and drive reform on issues such as VAT and business rates.
