The Hospital Caterers Association (HCA), has appointed a new Chair and Vice-Chair following its AGM today (April 16, 2021).
Area soft FM Manager for East/Midlothian & associated sites, and former HCA Vice-Chair Brian Robb takes on the role of Chair whilst Head of Catering at County Durham & Darlington NHS Services Stuart Wray takes on the position of Vice-Chair.
Brian Robb has a wealth of experience for the role having joined the HCA in 1999 and sat for many years on the council. Commenting on taking up the position of Chair he says: “Chair of the HCA is not a position I sought for myself or ever dreamed of attaining however, now that I have, I see my tenure as one that requires me to continue delivering the work which ensures the organisation is fit for the future by becoming a Company Limited by Guarantee. I am keen in the short term to put in place a re-forming and modernising strategy.”
He continues: “One of the most important things for me is that the HCA continues to support and meet the needs of its members, helping them to navigate the extreme complexity of our day jobs as caterers in the NHS and to do so across a wide range of platforms such as education, training, guidance and legislation.”
Looking ahead, the HCA will continue its work with the Hospital Food Review, new Hospital Food Standards, NHS Caterers Competitions and the delivery of the Training and Development Forum, now rescheduled to March 2022.
Vice-Chair Stuart Wray comments: “It’s is a fantastic opportunity and an honour to be appointed as the HCA’s new national Vice-Chair during this challenging and turbulent time. As we are still navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, I am looking forward to offering my support to Brian, HCA members and fellow NHS colleagues. I am thrilled to start work on sustainability issues, COVID-19 catering recovery plans, as well as helping increase standards and drive change in our sector.’’
Stuart joined the HCA in 2006 and has more than 30 years of catering experience.
Former Chair Craig Smith has stepped down with immediate effect and takes the title of HCA Immediate Past Chair.
