Our new Chairman, Jan Matthews, received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from members and guests when she officially took the Arena reins at the Arena Christmas Lunch on Monday 3 December 2012. Jan is the first female and first operator to assume the role and her appointment marks the start of an exciting new chapter for our association.
Jan’s extensive industry experience makes her an ideal choice for the role. She is probably now best known for her key role and fantastic achievements during the incredible London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when she led the 22,000-strong team that delivered the monumental catering and hospitality package. Let’s, however, not overlook the impressive career that led her there and beyond. Her impressive CV also includes senior positions in the hotel sector including Moat House and Forte, contract caterers Aramark and Elior, the NAAFI, and now CEO of RP Global the major events arm of the Russell Partnership.
This collective expertise and knowledge will be of immense benefit to Arena and members and we look forward to the fantastic impact Jan is sure to have on our association and events.