David McHattie new chief executive of National Skill Academy for Hospitality

Sector skills council People 1st today announced that David McHattie, its chief operating officer, will move over to become full-time chief executive of the new National Skills Academy for Hospitality.

The Academy, which is backed by £100m of government funding, is expected to see 65,000 learners passing through in the next five years.

The Academy bid was co-ordinated by People 1st, along with employers including Barcelò Hotels and Resorts, Compass Group, Terry Laybourne and the Edge Foundation.

British Hospitality Association chief executive Bob Cotton, who is chairman of the Academy, said McHattie's appointment was the "first significant step in assembling a talented board and executive" for the body.

"I am delighted that David has agreed to lead this critical skills initiative for the industry," he said. "David and I will be discussing plans through the summer, and industry should expect a period of radio silence before we launch our plan in the autumn."

McHattie, who has worked for a number of hospitality operators including Bass Taverns (now Mitchells & Butlers), Fuller, Smith & Turner and Restaurant Group, added: "I am delighted to take on such an exciting role of turning the impressive vision into a reality that will transform skills delivery for our industry".

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By Daniel Thomas

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