Nelson’s Clare Davies elected national president for Hospitality New Zealand

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2224

Nelson’s Clare Davies has been appointed National President of Hospitality New Zealand, replacing Adam Cunningham who has stepped down after six years in the role.

She was elected to the position at the associations AGM last Thursday at Sky City.

Clare has a strong hospitality and commercial accommodation background having grown up in the industry. With over 25 years’ experience starting in the family owned pub in Lyttelton, she purchased her first business, a restaurant, at age 21 with money for the deposit earned from waitressing. She is also Managing Director of Capstone Hotels and Resorts, a management company representing hospitality and tourism businesses throughout New Zealand.

“I understand what it feels like to have the buck stop with you in business and how to make the tough calls when needed”, says Clare. “I feel this experience positions me well for the National President role and I look forward to giving back to the industry that has been so good to me throughout my career”.

Prior to the National President appointment, Clare spent four years on the National Board for Hospitality New Zealand and the past year as Vice President. She also holds a position on the AccommodationNZ Accommodation Advisory Council (part of Hospitality New Zealand).

Outgoing National President, Adam Cunningham, applauded Clare’s succession to the role.  “Clare’s passion for the industry and her depth of experience across both food and beverage and commercial accommodation brings the right balance to the position and I wish her all the best.”

Mr Cunningham steps down after six years as National President and 12 years on the National Executive.  

Hospitality New Zealand, CEO Vicki Lee said, “With a new National President, a relatively new CEO at the helm and a strong mandate from the Board to ‘get on with it’ and move the association forward I am really excited about the future. Adam worked tirelessly setting the association up for growth and I thank him for his time and energy. Clare brings fresh eyes and ideas to the role and I’m really looking forward to working with her.”