New leadership team at association for Devon hotels

Craig Findleton, general manager at Mercure Exeter Rougemont hotel will be taking the helm as chairman for the Exeter and Heart of Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association.

Having managed the Mercure Exeter Rougemont since 2013, Findleton has 22 years' experience within the hospitality industry.

He will be joined by John Wheeler, head of faculty at Exeter College as chair of training and Jemma Mitchell, owner of Rendezvous Wine Bar who takes the position of vice-chairman.

Mark Godfrey, managing director of Deer Park Country House hotel and Derek Phillips retain their positions as honorary treasurer and honorary secretary respectively.

L-R John Wheeler, Jemma Mitchell, Craig Findleton, Mark Godfrey and Derek Phillips

Findleton said: "I am delighted to lead the Devon Hotels & Restaurants Association as its chair and look forward to working with a group of highly experienced and innovative hoteliers and restauranteurs from the county. We recently reported that members are investing millions into the facilities we offer so this is a pivotal time for the Association as it continues its work to help promote our wonderful county and its exciting member hotels and restaurants."

Phillips, who has been on the Association Board since the 1970s, added: "We welcome Craig to his new position as chair and look forward to another productive year for the Association and the hospitality industry in Devon."

The Exeter and Heart of Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association is an Association of more than 40 hotels and restaurants in Devon.

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