The CEO of the Jersey Hospitality Association is stepping down to pursue other interests in Dubai.

Claire Boscq took over from Simon Soar in September last year after he had steered the industry body through the tough challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

She will depart in October 2022.

Ms. Boscq, who settled in Jersey permanently in 2000, says it's time for her to find new opportunities in Dubai.

"It is a privilege to be working with the dedicated and talented people that make up the hospitality sector in Jersey. Hospitality is facing some serious challenges, but we have made considerable progress in supporting our members and addressing some of those issues.

By working with the Government of Jersey we were able to extend work permits and visas for seasonal staff and welcome the first group of professionals from Antigua and Barbuda to work in the industry this year.

We have also built up some strong relationships with the newly elected politicians, and, through the publication of our own ‘election manifesto’, the JHA will continue to lobby hard on behalf of our members and be the voice for hospitality in Jersey."

Work is underway to find a new CEO and ensure a seamless handover can take place.

Chair of the JHA Committee, Tim Hubert, says it was clear from day one that they made the right choice to hire her.

"She was soon winning over the membership with her enthusiasm and love of the industry which she worked in when she first came to Jersey. It has been a pleasure to work with Claire and watch how she has used her role to support our members and forge new relationships which have greatly benefitted the JHA, particularly with politicians and within Government.

Claire had a clear vision for how to move the JHA on from the disruption of the last two years and is putting that plan into action. We are extremely sad to see her go, but we are looking forward to meeting her successor."