Chris Wayne-Wills steps down as UKHospitality Scotland chair

UKHospitality Scotland chair Chris Wayne-Wills has stepped down after a little over three years in the role.

During his tenure, he oversaw the creation of a Scottish advisory group of industry leaders, introduced a new members’ forum format and expanded the organisation’s programme of well-attended member events.

Wayne-Wills also met the King, the prime minister, the chancellor, Scotland’s first minister and other senior political figures to present the sector’s business cases and concerns. 

Wayne-Wills warned that hospitality remained “the most highly taxed sector in the economy” and called for measures in the next Budget to lower business rates, reduce national insurance contributions and cut VAT to stimulate investment. 

He said the sector had lost 69,000 jobs in recent months, compared with 18,000 created in the same period the previous year.

UKHospitality Scotland executive director Leon Thompson will continue to lead the organisation. 

In a LinkedIn post Wayne-Wills said: “There is a solid structure in place and great relationships with the Scottish government and opposition parties as the Scottish parliament election approaches in 2026.

“I’m grateful for the support from the UKHospitality London team during my time as Scotland chair and I wish you all every success in the vital work you do to campaign for, and champion the industry.”