UKHospitality appoints deputy chief executive

Allen Simpson has been appointed to the role of deputy chief executive at UKHospitality, bolstering the trade body's senior team at a critical time for the industry.

Simpson joins from London & Partners, the Mayor of London's tourism, inward investment and city marketing agency, where he served as executive director and, in 2021, acting chief executive. 

He brings experience from the tourism and leisure sector and expertise across economic development, business strategy, corporate affairs and communications, having also previously worked at Barclays Bank and the London Stock Exchange.

In the new deputy chief executive position, Simpson will provide strategic oversight across UKHospitality's corporate social responsibility, policy and communications output.

On his new role, Simpson comments: "I'm delighted to join UKHospitality as its first deputy chief executive and work with a sector that can be counted as one of the most integral and impactful in the country.

"I have seen first-hand in my career just how important hospitality, leisure and tourism is to the economy and our global competitiveness. It is a crucial provider of skilled careers across society and I care deeply about it.

"I'm looking forward to working closely with members, at what is undeniably a challenging time for the sector. I am particularly proud to work with an exceptional leader in Kate [Nicholls, chief executive] and the wider UKHospitality team in the fantastic work it does as the leading voice for hospitality." 

The wider senior team remains unchanged. Jackie Marlow, as chief operating officer, continues to oversee membership, operational and commercial matters, and will add finance to her portfolio. Tony Sophoclides remains responsible for the organisation's political engagement and external communications. 

You may also be interested in…