TUCO announces the appointment of Amanda Pettingill as new Chair, with Phil Rees-Jones stepping down


The University of Nottingham’s Amanda Pettingill has been announced as the new Chair of TUCO. Having joined the TUCO Board in 2015, and becoming Vice-Chair in 2022, Amanda has an abundance of experience within the catering industry including work within contract catering, hotels, sport and the education sectors. Amanda is a long-standing advocate of TUCO and the values of the organisation.

Amanda will spearhead TUCO through the coming years, alongside TUCO CEO, Mike Haslin, by attending events, regional meetings, and Conferences to meet with members and discuss how they can get the most out of their relationship with TUCO.

Phil Rees-Jones became the Chair of TUCO in 2020 and led TUCO through the most challenging times for our industry as it aimed to recover from the Covid pandemic. Other notable events during Phil’s tenure included the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant, the resurgence of TUCO Competitions, and the launch of the TUCO Foundation. We’re pleased to announce that Phil’s journey with TUCO continues as he joins the TUCO Foundation board.

Mike Haslin, CEO, TUCO says: “We are delighted to welcome Amanda into the role of TUCO Chair. Amanda has been a great support to Phil as vice-chair, and has been a champion of TUCO and its members over the years. She brings great experience to the role and will help grow TUCO for the future. It has been a privilege working with Phil, especially throughout the trying times of Covid, and I look forward to continuing our relationship over at the TUCO Foundation.”

Amanda Pettingill, Chair, TUCO says: “I look forward to bringing my experience from inside and outside of the hospitality sector to lead the board for the future. It is a privilege to lead this great organisation, albeit filling very big shoes left previously by Phil and Matthew White! I very much look forward to working with the TUCO team and our members”.