New perspectives brought to Hospitality Standards

New perspectives brought to Hospitality Standards Institute board

The Hospitality Standards Institute, the industry training organisation for the hospitality sector, has appointed its first independent chairwoman - with a view to bringing fresh new ideas from an ‘outside perspective’ to the industry training body.

Wellington business consultant and director Carol Stigley takes up the role – replacing long-time hospitality figurehead Michael Friend who has been chairman of the Hospitality Standards Institute for the past six years.

Previous chairmen of the organisation - responsible for training in the hospitality industry, from chefs to hotel receptionists - have come from the within the hospitality industry.

Outgoing chairman Michael Friend said Carol Stigley would bring a valuable external perspective to HSI’s boardroom.

“Carol Stigley’s appointment reflects another stage in the rapid and successful growth of the Hospitality Standards Institute, which is now one of the largest independent training organisations in New Zealand,” said Michael Friend.

“HSI’s industry focus will continue to be provided by the other board members who are all leaders in their particular areas of the culinary, liquor, accommodation and food and beverage sectors.

“My fellow board members and I are delighted that Carol has agreed to lead the Hospitality Standards Institute as it works towards its goals of continually improving workplace professionalism, increasing training engagement within all industry areas, and achieving a target of training 15,000 people per annum by 2010.”

Mr Friend said he had enjoyed his six years as chairman of the Hospitality Standards Institute.

“It has been an exciting and successful time for the Hospitality Standards Institute. I’ve been proud to be part of what has been a rapid period of growth for the organisation as it continues to build acknowledgement from those within New Zealand’s diverse hospitality market,” he said.

Ms Stigley said she was eagerly looking forward to the challenge of leading the Hospitality Standards Institute, and hoped her independent views and proven business acumen would bring a new dimension to the organisation’s governing body.

“New Zealanders have become very discerning hospitality consumers, and there are big and exciting challenges ahead to ensure the training and professionalism that’s needed within the industry is in place for the future to meet those challenges. Hospitality is a key contributor to New Zealand’s tourism earnings, and ensuring travelers have a quality experience is critical to the long-term viability of our tourism sector,” Ms Stigley said.

“Quality training programmes such as those administered by the Hospitality Standards Institute are the key to providing the professional services and standards our customers expect.

“My job is to oversee enthusiastic and professionally trained staff working in a significant, exciting and growing part of the New Zealand economy are supported by the best possible training framework.

Ms Stigley played tribute to the contribution made by Michael Friend during his time on the HSI Board.

“Michael has played a huge part in developing the importance of striving for the professional delivery of hospitality services along with the friendly, open and welcoming approach which is a hallmark of the New Zealand hospitality experience,” she said.

As a professional director and consultant, Carol Stigley sits on a range of boards - including .nz Registry Services, Standards NZ, and the St James Theatre. She is also deputy chairwoman of the Wellington branch of the Institute of Directors. Previously, Carol Stigley was chief executive of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and of Local Government New Zealand.

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