The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has announced that Bob Cotton is to step down from his role as chief executive in July 2010.
Cotton, who joined the organisation in January 2000, said that he planned to continue to take an active part in the industry and would remain chairman of the Hospitality Skills Academy.
The BHA said that it would begin the search for his successor later this year.
Cotton said: “By the time of the general election, I will have been chief executive for more than ten years, so the election of the new government in 2010 is an appropriate time for me to step down and hand over the reins.
“Building up good relationships with government departments is a key role and my successor will be able to do this right at the start of the new administration - no matter who wins the election.
“The last 10 years have been immensely rewarding and challenging but it is now time to move on. The hospitality industry now plays an even greater role in the UK economy than it ever has done and, despite the present recession, looks set for further expansion.”
He will also maintain his roles as president of Hospitality Action and a member of the board of Springboard UK.
