The membership body which represents hoteliers across the region, has unveiled its new Management Committee.
The North East Hotels Association (NEHA) announced the leadership line-up at its AGM on Tyneside.
Lisa Crocker, General Manager at Staybridge Suites Newcastle has joined Bernard Bloodworth, Managing Director at Matfen Hall, as Joint NEHA Chair.
Andrew Fox, General Manager at Slaley Hall joins the Committee as Vice Chair and Norrie Oswald, General Manager at Holiday Inn Newcastle Gosforth Park, retains the role of Treasurer.
Lisa Crocker, new NEHA Joint Chair, said: “I’m thrilled to take on this important role. The Association represents all aspects of the hotel industry, providing strategic guidance to our members and seeking to advance and protect the interests of the hotel and hospitality industry in our region.
“As we head into 2018, we will continue to be an important voice for our members, offering valuable guidance and insight on the opportunities and challenges facing our industry.
“I’m in no doubt this is going to be an exciting year for the region’s tourism and hospitality industry. We have a unique opportunity in the Great Exhibition of the North this summer. Set to be a celebration of northern art, design and culture, it will shine a spotlight on the region and is predicted to attract an additional 300,000 overnight visitors.
“This presents a tremendous opportunity for our members as visitors seek to explore the rich cultural heritage of our towns and cities and the stunning beauty of our rural and coastal landscapes. As an Association, we actively support high-profile events that support business, create new stories and new reasons to visit the region.
“It was fantastic the Rough Guide to 2018 recently announced Newcastle as the number one place that should be on travellers’ radars! The choice of hotels in the city and surrounding areas offer something for everyone. Through working in partnership, we all have a vital role to play in extending a warm North East welcome and a fantastic visitor experience.”
Association members have a significant impact on the regional economy, employing more than 3,400 people and spending £70 million purchasing products and services through its supply chain. It is estimated that the overall contribution of the NEHA to the North East economy and GDP of the region is £616 million.
In 2010 the Association launched the Excellence Awards to recognise and celebrate the brightest and best hospitality service providers in the North East of England. The awards are now an annual highlight for hotels across the region, attracting over 400 industry professionals and guests.
This year, the winners and runners-up will be revealed at a dazzling awards evening hosted by the Newcastle Marriott Hotel Gosforth Park on 10 May.
The Association was first established in 1992 to represent and promote the region’s hotel and hospitality industry around the UK. It is now believed to be the biggest of its kind in England, representing 50 of the region’s best-known hotels including internationally and nationally recognised chains and leading independent hotels.