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Steve Norris, sales director at Nestlé Professional, is the new chairman of the hospitality industry networking association, Arena.The appointment was announced last night (Monday 4 April) at the Arena Savoy Lecture 2016 when interim chairman, Andy Kemp, group sales and marketing director at Bidvest Foodservice, passed on the mantle to Steve. The news was enthusiastically received by 220 plus Arena members and foodservice and hospitality industry professionals who were present at The Savoy for the popular Arena event.

Steve is a well-known, liked and respected figure within the foodservice and hospitality industry. His extensive experience and passion, which span over 30 years, make him the ideal candidate for the role. His impressive foodservice career includes national account manager at Bidvest Foodservice, national account controller, RHM Foodservice, and wholesale controller leading to sales director at Nestlé Professional. Steve is also a long term supporter of Arena and fully understands its role and value within the industry.

Lorraine Wood, director of Arena, said:  “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Steve in driving Arena forward. His knowledge, expertise and dedication are attributes that will benefit Arena and its members greatly. I look forward to working with Steve on what marks the beginning of a very exciting chapter for our association as we continue to evolve and thrive as a valuable industry association. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Andy Kemp for his unwavering support and hard work as Arena's interim chairman.”

Steve Norris, chairman, Arena, comments: "I am honoured to take on the responsibility of chairman of Arena and I very much look forward to working with Lorraine and the Board to continue to shape Arena as a relevant and progressive industry association. My connection with Arena goes back 20 years. Its events have benefitted me in my career, providing great insight and fantastic business contacts. I am delighted to have the opportunity to give my time and experience to the association so that the foodservice and hospitality industry professionals of today and tomorrow can enjoy the same experience. Arena has seen a host of impressive and dedicated chairs, including my predecessor Andy Kemp, and I am ready to rise to the challenge."