I believe I would be a strong Chair because I combine hands-on industry experience with a clear, practical vision for how hospitality can secure meaningful change. With 16 years in the sector, I have developed a relentless work ethic, sharp focus, and a deep commitment to ensuring our voices are heard. I understand that hospitality urgently needs a united, credible message to government—one that is focused, evidence-based, and capable of driving fast, practical change. We do not have the luxury of time, and while our industry has its challenges, it is also uniquely open to collaboration when guided by strong leadership and a shared purpose. I am a well-respected figure locally and nationally through my wider work, and while I may not have—or seek—a Michelin star, I am deeply committed to seeing every part of hospitality flourish, from fine dining to the local pub. I am committed to working with independent bodies and Hospitality Action to develop a unified, well-evidenced proposal based on robust forecasting and real-world data, ensuring we lead with facts rather than gut instinct. Alongside this, we must highlight the vital social value hospitality provides: offering first jobs, creating spaces for human connection, supporting mental wellbeing, and developing transferable skills such as leadership and customer engagement. My career spans development roles, private cheffing, function work, and now ownership of Lowe’s on Carter Street in Uttoxeter, an award-winning restaurant, giving me a broad, practical understanding of the sector. By collectively sharing our challenges—rising utilities, wage costs, and operating pressures—we can show government where immediate action, such as reducing VAT and business rates, would deliver real relief and stimulate growth. Britain is built on its pubs and restaurants, and we cannot allow them to fail. My aim is to lead a focused, inclusive campaign that mobilises the industry through social media and lobbying, uniting our voices at a time when hospitality is both highly vulnerable and more visible than ever. While we need one clear voice and message, I strongly believe that voice must be built on everyone’s input, and I would be proud to act as

the vessel through which our collective experience, challenges, and ambitions are heard.