Clare Davies has been appointed National President of Hospitality
Clare Davies, Managing Director of Capstone Hotels and Resorts, has been appointed National President of Hospitality New Zealand, replacing Adam Cunningham who has stepped down after six years in the role.
Ms Davies 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 Managing Director of Capstone Hotels and Resorts, a management company representing hospitality and tourism businesses throughout NZ.
“I understand what it feels like to have the buck stop with you in business and how to make the tough calls when needed”, Ms Davies said. “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, Ms Davies spent four years on the National Board for Hospitality New Zealand, 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 Ms Davies 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.
“It’s time for me to put my energy into some other aspects of my life and I am also a true believer that people in governance roles should never stay too long so the organisation can continue to question and change to suit the industry and members’ needs.” he said.
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.”
Hospitality New Zealand Board:
National President Clare Davies Capstone Hotels and Resorts, Nelson
Vice President Jeremy Smith Trinity Group Ltd, Wellington
Treasurer Peter Morrison The Classic Villa, Christchurch
Board Members:
Kevin Schwass Burnbrae Group Ltd, Auckland
Nick Keene Schnappa Rock, Tutukaka
John Hellebrekers Barworks, Auckland
Tony Crosbie Springlands Tavern, Nelson
Glen Christiansen Golden Gate Lodge, Cromwell
Neville Butcher Bluestone on George, Dunedin
Nigel Humphries Anchorage Motel, Te Anau
