Kate Nicholls to Chair, Allen Simpson to CEO

UKHospitality has announced leadership changes with Kate Nicholls becoming Chair and Allen Simpson stepping into the CEO role.

UKHospitality, the trade association representing the UK’s hospitality sector, has revealed a significant reshuffling of its leadership team. Kate Nicholls, who previously held the position of CEO, has been appointed as the new Chair of the organization. Concurrently, Allen Simpson, the former Deputy CEO, has been promoted to CEO.

This leadership transition is part of a broader strategy to enhance the organization’s influence and operational capabilities in the hospitality industry. The changes are effective immediately, and both Nicholls and Simpson will assume their new roles to steer the organization through its next phase of development.

As Chair, Nicholls will focus on broadening UKHospitality’s engagement with political and industry stakeholders to advocate for the sector’s interests more effectively. Her previous experience as CEO, where she played a pivotal role in representing the industry, especially during critical periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is expected to be instrumental in her new position.

Simpson, in his new capacity as CEO, will take over the organization’s day-to-day leadership responsibilities. His experience as Deputy CEO involved leading initiatives related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria and developing the Social Productivity Index, highlighting the hospitality sector’s contributions to the UK economy and communities.

The organization has indicated that these leadership changes are designed to enhance its strategic direction and operational efficiency. The aim is to better serve its members and exert a greater influence on policy-making that affects the hospitality industry.

Steve Cassidy, who previously served as the non-executive chairman, will now take on the role of President of UKHospitality. In this role, Cassidy will continue to support the organization’s strategic initiatives and help foster relationships with key external stakeholders.

These leadership adjustments come as the hospitality sector navigates a complex landscape of economic challenges and regulatory changes. UKHospitality’s revamped leadership team is set to focus on key issues such as business rates reform, sector-specific support measures, and advocacy for favorable policy adjustments to aid the recovery and growth of the hospitality industry in the UK.