David Cochrane, Chief Executive of Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland (HIT), has been awarded an MBE in the Queens’ birthday honours list announced last month.
David, 52, from Milnathort, Kinross has been recognised for his pivotal role in spearheading the hospitality charity’s scholarship programme which has transformed the lives of young people carving out a career in the hospitality sector.
Under David’s guidance, HIT Scotland has raised in-excess of £4 million and awarded over 10,000 bursaries and 2,000 scholarships.
HIT’s Scholarship & Bursary programmes are estimated to return £1 million annually to the hospitality industry in
new skills, promoting best practice, improving staff retention and encouraging professional development
Well regarded in the industry, David offers his time as a volunteer to champion the sector and is an active member of many industry forums, including the Scottish Government’s Tourism Skills Group, as trustee of Dynamic Earth (one of Scotland’s top tourist attractions) and as a fellow of the Institute of Hospitality.
Commenting on the award, David said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled by this award.What has been achieved by HIT Scotland would not have
been possible without the commitment and ambition of our Trustees and Exec team who have played a huge part in the success
of the charity, alongside members of the industry who have given generously of their time, hospitality and funds to make such a positive impact on our sector.
“This comes at a really difficult time for the sector as we grapple with the catastrophic impact of Covid-19. This has certainly tested our resilience but again the industry has demonstrated real ingenuity in overcoming the many obstacles we face. The ambition and drive to look to the future is shining through and HIT is proud to be part of this incredible industr y.”
Chair of HIT Scotland and Chief Executive of Apex Hotels, Angela Vickers said: “
I can truly say that David is devoted to the industry and its betterment.Throughout his working life from Gleneagles, to Springboard Charity, to HIT Scotland he has championed the cause by promoting Hospitality
as a sustainable occupation. Through his work at HIT David has assisted hundreds of students into education, employment, progression and genuinely enhanced careers. I would like to pass on my congratulations, and that of all the HIT trustees, to David and his family..”