Allen Simpson named deputy chief executive of UKHospitality

Allen Simpson has been appointed deputy chief executive of UKHospitality, joining from a role at London & Partners.

He previously served as executive director and acting chief executive of the Mayor of London's tourism, investment and city marketing agency and has held roles at Barclays Bank and the London Stock Exchange.

Allen has also worked as a former director of Labour in the City and as a strategy board member of Progress.

In his new role, Simpson will oversee UKHospitality's corporate social responsibility, policy, and communications output.

He has been an outspoken voice for the tourism industry and told MPs in 2022 that the sector had historically been overlooked by government due to "snobbery".

Simpson joins UKHospitality a critical time for the industry and the trade body as it gears up for a general election this year.

"I have seen first-hand in my career just how important hospitality, leisure and tourism is to the economy and our global competitiveness," said Simpson.

"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."

The wider UKHospitality senior team will remain unchanged. Chief operating officer Jackie Marlow will extend her role to oversee finance while Tony Sophoclides remains responsible for UKHospitality's political engagement and external communications.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: "Allen is a first-class addition to the UKHospitality team, bringing with him deep knowledge of the tourism sector and how to work across government and industry to deliver success.

"I know that he will be an invaluable member of the team and his appointment strengthens our ability to represent our members at a critical time, ahead of a Budget and looming general election."