Alastair Storey appointed chairman of Springboard

Hospitality industry charity Springboard has announced Alastair Storey will be its new chairman, taking over from founder and chair Stephen Moss after 29 years.

Appointed by the charity's board of trustees, Storey is chairman of WSH, the parent company for hospitality brands including BaxterStorey, Benugo, Portico and Caterlink; has been a Springboard life patron since 2010; and was named the most influential person in hospitality last year, topping The Caterer's Top 100 list.

Anne Pierce, chief executive of Springboard, said: "We are confident that Alastair's experience and active engagement in the hospitality industry will help Springboard achieve its ambitious goals to help young people, unemployed and disadvantaged adults into sustainable employment and careers in hospitality."

Storey said: "In these uncertain times Springboard's mission has never been more essential. Attracting new talent is crucial to the future success of our sector, and through its work with business partners, Springboard showcases hospitality and tourism as a truly exciting sector. I am delighted to continue the fantastic work Stephen and the team have undertaken over the past 29 years."

Storey will build on the legacy of Moss, who will move to the role of founder and life president. Moss founded Springboard to combat the poor perception of the hospitality industry, to attract more home-grown talent into the industry and improve perceived inadequate careers advice at the time.

Moss said: "At this pivotal time, I am proud to look back at what our organisation has achieved. Alastair will bring his unrivalled expertise and experience, continuing our hard work and supporting Springboard's growth."

Pierce added: "I've worked with Stephen for over 22 years, and his immeasurable contribution, wisdom, tact and diplomacy and sheer passion has inspired everyone who has ever worked for and with Springboard.

"Now we're at a transformational point of Springboard's evolution. With issues facing the industry including the impact of Brexit and immigration policy, Springboard's work is elevated to a new level of importance. We're excited to welcome Alastair to drive our mission forward as an influential leader with ambitious goals."

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