As part of Cambridge Food & Drink Week (9–17 May 2026), Cambridge BID, in partnership with Elle Events Management, will host a dedicated Hospitality Panel Event bringing together a range of perspectives from across the sector.
Taking place on Tuesday 12 May from 5:30pm at Town and Gown, the event, “25 Years of Change and the Future of the Hospitality Industry”, will create space for open conversation around how the industry has evolved and what the future may look like.
The evening will begin with a keynote address from Allen Simpson, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, who will also join the panel discussion, bringing both a national and local perspective to the conversation.
Following this, a panel discussion and Q&A will explore a range of themes affecting hospitality businesses today, from workforce and operations to the changing expectations of customers and the role of the nighttime economy.
Meet the Panel
Allen Simpson – Chief Executive, UKHospitality
Allen became Chief Executive of UKHospitality in June 2025, after joining the organisation as Deputy CEO in 2024. He joined following five years as Executive Director and Acting Chief Executive of London & Partners, the global trade, investment, and tourism promotion agency for the UK’s capital city, where he played a key role in supporting London’s recovery following the pandemic.
After starting his career at the Foreign Office, Parliament and the Ministry of Justice, Allen went on to work during the financial crisis and Brexit period at the London Stock Exchange and Barclays Bank. He has also served on the boards of several think tanks and political organisations, bringing a broad and strategic perspective to the hospitality sector.
Matthew Potter – Partner, Howes Percival LLP
Matthew is an Employment Partner at Howes Percival LLP in Cambridge, with a wealth of experience across all areas of employment law. He has a longstanding interest in the food and beverage sector, acting for clients across a diverse range of businesses, from meat and poultry producers to international wine importers.
Matthew regularly writes and presents on employment law issues, providing updates and training to clients. He is recognised by both Chambers and Legal 500 directories as a leader in his field and has also served as a judge for a number of food and beverage industry awards.
Chris Douglas – General Manager, Graduate by Hilton Cambridge
Chris has been the General Manager of Graduate by Hilton Cambridge for the past nine years. During this time, he has led the hotel through its sale, a multi-million-pound renovation, two significant extensions, and the launch of the first Graduate branded hotel in the UK.
He began his hospitality career in Aberdeen as a banqueting waiter and holds a degree from Robert Gordon University. Over the course of his career, Chris has worked across the UK and Ireland in a variety of branded hotels within key markets. For the past 20 years, he has held senior leadership roles with Hilton Hotels.
A passionate hotelier, Chris is recognised for building high-performing teams that deliver outstanding guest experiences whilst meeting commercial and stakeholder objectives. In addition to his hotel leadership role, he serves as a Director of Cambridge BID and the Cambridge Hoteliers Association, contributing to the wider visitor economy of the city.
Louise Holly – Owner, MASH and KiKi Nightclubs
Louise is an independent nightclub owner and promoter, best known for running MASH and KiKi nightclubs in Cambridge. She has been a fixture in the UK nightlife scene for over 20 years, specialising in student-focused events and working across more than 17 cities and towns nationwide.
Louise began her career in promotions at the age of 21 and has since built a strong reputation within the industry. Beyond venue management, she also serves as a board member for Cambridge BID, representing the city’s professional and independent businesses.
She is a passionate voice for the nighttime economy and advocates for its importance in ensuring vibrant and sustainable city centres for future generations.
Richard Holmes – Founder, Pint Shop
Richard has spent his entire career in hospitality, with previous roles including openings manager for a gastropub group, area manager for a high street restaurant chain, and positions in marketing and operations at LEON.
Since 2013, he has been focused on building Pint Shop, navigating the highs and lows of independent business ownership. The concept centres on serving high-quality beers alongside a simple, seasonal British menu cooked over charcoal, with a strong emphasis on quality and provenance.
An Open Conversation for the Sector
This event is designed to bring together different viewpoints from across hospitality, creating an opportunity for discussion, shared learning, and connection.
Attendees will have the chance to engage with the panel, ask questions, and continue conversations during the networking session following the discussion.
Spaces are limited, and early booking is recommended.
Alternatively, you can register your interest by emailing Natalie.dix@cambridgebid.co.uk
