Jessica Burgess joins Houston & Hawkes from BaxterStorey

Houston & Hawkes has appointed Jessica Burgess as sales director to lead the company’s business development strategy.

Burgess joins from BaxterStorey, where she was business development director. In her new role she will be focused on developing client relationships and driving growth for the independent caterer.

In addition, Houston & Hawkes has announced the promotion of 2020 Acorn Award winner Josh Key, who will take on the role of head of marketing. He was previously sales and marketing manager.

Burgess said that she was “thrilled” to be joining “such a vibrant, exciting and successful company”. She added: “I’ve followed their journey over the past five years and have admired their commitment to quality food and service, sustainability and their people.”

Key said: “I look forward to working closely with Jessica and the rest of the team to amplify Houston & Hawkes’ message of creativity, sustainability and exceptional service.”

Houston & Hawkes co-founder and director Simon Houston said Burgess shared the company’s vision for sustainable catering.

He added: “Jessica’s track record of success and alignment with our values make her the perfect person to take on this critical role. At the same time, Josh has shown immense dedication and leadership, and his promotion is a natural progression of the impact he’s had on our business. We’re confident that both Jessica’s and Josh’s leadership will enhance our ability to serve our clients with creativity, quality and care.”