William Baxter takes chairman's seat at Hospitality Action

Hospitality Action has appointed William Baxter as its new chairman. Baxter, who is currently deputy chief executive of BaxterStorey, has more than 20 years' experience in senior management positions in contract catering.

In 2000 he co-founded BaxterSmith, which later merged with WSH to become BaxterStorey. The appointment follows the completion of a two-year term by Fred Barnes.

Bob Cotton, outgoing chief executive of the British Hospitality Association, has also stepped down as a trustee although he will remain as president. Peter Barrett, recently retired as divisional director of Debenhams Department Stores, has also relinquished his role as a trustee.

Three new trustees have been appointed: Matt Johnson, managing director of Bunzl's catering and hospitality division; Tracey Rogers, managing director of Unilever Foodsolutions UK; and Robert Walton, president of the Restaurant Association and proprietor of Trunkwell Mansion House in Reading.