Hospitality group appoints new CEO

Monday 22 October 2018

The Manager of the Jersey Hospitality Association has been promoted to become the organisation’s new Chief Executive Officer.

The JHA says that the appointment of Simon Soar recognises both the work he has done with the Association since becoming manager in January, and the importance the group places on its role as a voice for the hospitality industry.

JHA President Fiona Kerley said: “The JHA has made some really important strides over the past year, including a significant rise in membership, increased engagement with its members and ensuring that the industry has a collective voice to promote the challenges and successes of our businesses at the highest levels.

“Simon’s promotion acknowledges the authority he will have to speak for the organisation and, by extension, the industry on a range of matters that are vital to our continued success.”

Pictured: Fiona Kerley, JHA President, welcomed Mr Soar's promotion.

Mr Soar said that he was committed to representing the views of the JHA members and finding new ways to make sure that members received the support they need to develop and succeed.

He commented: “Hospitality and tourism play a vital role in ensuring the diversity and sustainability of Jersey’s economy and our members have worked hard despite extremely challenging employment circumstances to make sure that visitors and residents experience the best the Island has to offer.

“There are a number of factors that are combining to make the working environment difficult, including a well-documented recruitment crisis, and a continuing rise in costs. As an organisation, it is vital that we continue to engage positively with government departments and Ministers so that they understand the implications of policy decisions for the future of hospitality businesses. I look forward to developing those links further and working to find solutions that benefit the industry and the wider community."