UKHospitality: Hilton boss to chair pub and restaurant body as part of leadership shakeup
The body which represents pub and hospitality businesses across the UK, has named the managing director of Hilton UK & Ireland, as its new chair, as part of a scheduled shake up of its leadership board.
UKHospitality said Steve Cassidy, who oversees operations for the luxury hotel group will take over as chair this week as Steve Richards, chief of Parkdean Resorts steps into the role of president.
Cassidy has some 30 years experience in the travel industry and sat on the UKHospitality Board since it was formed, most recently as vice-chair.
“I am incredibly proud to become chair of UKHospitality, an organisation that has supported and championed our industry with such passion and drive, especially through the recent tough years we have endured,” he said.
UKHospitality has also welcomed seven new board members to the group including Simon Emeny, chief executive at Fullers and Rob Pitcher, chief executive, Revolution Bars Group.
Leaving the board after full terms are Wendy Bartlett, executive chairman, BM Caterers; Peter Marks, executive chairman, REKOM UK, Calum Ross, proprietor, Loch Melfort Hotel and Restaurant, Nick Varney, former CEO, Merlin Entertainment and Paul Wigham, CEO, All Our Bars.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality said; “I’d like to thank Steve Richards for his diligent service to UKHospitality since its inception five years ago, and for his dedication in his time as chair, where his leadership and ability to bring people together had a hugely positive impact on our sector, particularly during the pandemic.
“He is a fantastic ambassador for the sector and I know he will continue working hard on its behalf, both in his new role as president, and also as chair of the hospitality tourism and skills board.”