Hospitality Apprentice Scotland today (Tuesday 1 July 2025) announces the appointment of Gordon McIntyre MBE as Chair of the Board, marking a significant step in the programme’s mission to shape the next generation of Scottish hospitality leaders.
Gordon takes on the role following the departure of outgoing Chair Stephen Gow, General Manager of The Chester Hotel, who has been appointed Chair of VisitAberdeenshire. Stephen’s contribution to the programme’s evolution has laid a strong foundation for this next chapter.
A leading figure in Scottish hospitality and education, Gordon brings with him more than three decades of experience in developing and inspiring talent. As founder of the mental health charity Hospitality Health, and a former Associate Dean at City of Glasgow College, his career has been defined by a commitment to wellbeing, workforce development and educational excellence.
In January 2024, Gordon was awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours for his services to hospitality and tourism in Scotland.
“We’re at a pivotal moment for the hospitality sector,” said Gordon McIntyre. “The future of our industry depends on the talent we attract, nurture and support today. I’m honoured to take on this role and help ensure that Hospitality Apprentice Scotland becomes the gold standard pathway for young people starting out in hospitality.”
As Chair, Gordon will play a central role in shaping the strategic direction of the programme as it builds momentum following the unification of Apprenticeship in Hospitality Scotland and Hospitality Apprenticeship North East into one nationally recognised initiative.
Gordon adds, “The goal is clear: to establish hospitality not just as a job, but as a professional, respected and rewarding career path — with clear progression, fair pay, and world-class training opportunities.
“In Scotland, hospitality is more than an industry. It’s a cornerstone of our national identity and international reputation. Our people are the face of that reputation — whether in five-star hotels, bustling restaurants, or remote country inns. We need to develop leaders who understand not just service, but community, sustainability, and innovation.”
Under Gordon’s guidance, Hospitality Apprentice Scotland will focus on:
- Championing career progression from apprentice to manager and beyond
- Promoting wellbeing, inclusivity and personal development as essential industry values
- Building stronger employer partnerships across all regions of Scotland
- Ensuring apprentices are paid fairly and trained to lead in a sustainable, future – facing sector
This appointment signals a commitment to excellence, equity and ambition in the development of hospitality talent nationwide.
“I am delighted that Gordon is stepping into the Chair role,” says outgoing Chair Stephen Gow. “He brings a rare blend of leadership, compassion and industry insight — along with a deep-rooted belief that hospitality careers can transform lives and communities.”
The Hospitality Apprenticeship Scotland programme is open for young adults, resident in Scotland who hold an NI number and who are between the ages of 16 and 24 at commencement. Applicants can find out more and register at www.hospitalityapprentice.com.
