The move will enable Nicholls and Simpson to deliver a new, bolder strategy for the organisation as it looks to ‘turbocharge’ further growth and deliver even more for members and the wider sector. Current non-executive chairman Steve Cassidy will move to become president.

Nicholls will be the organisation’s first paid and full-time chair. This natural next step reflects the increased size and scope of the organisation and her position as a champion of the sector and its leading voice with successive governments. 

The changes will allow her to devote even more time to championing the sector in both the political and media landscapes, and deepen Government engagement and understanding of the sector and its challenges.

Commenting on the news, Nicholls said: “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 £3.4bn 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.”