Scott Leach is looking forward to the challenges of being the national president of Australia’s leading hospitality organisation. “I am extremely humbled by the support of my colleagues across Australia,” he said of his appointment. Mr Leach remains President of the AHA NSW, a role he took on in 2008.

How did you get into the hotels industry?

I am a generational hotelier born into a family with a passion for local communities. Whilst enjoying professional opportunities from a University education, my great love has always been the vibrancy and fun of the public bar. You will find me pouring beers most days.

What are some career highlights from your NSW presidency?

The greatest satisfaction I enjoy at the AHA(NSW) branch is the development of our professional team and corporate ethos.
Eight consecutive years of record membership is a testament to the team we have built.

Across all member services and lobbying activity I have watched individuals as well as the whole team grow in confidence and ability, with a focus on promoting our wonderful industry. Our greatest achievement is the people we employ.

What are the biggest issues facing the hotel industry at the moment?

No matter which state or territory your hotel is located in, our great challenge is to prevent or limit 'knee jerk' policy in the face of an aggressive 24-hour media cycle. Every issue is now a crisis with expectation driven by social media particularly for politicians to respond often without a moment of pause, consideration or indeed the separation of emotion from fact.

How has the industry changed in the time you have been involved with it?

The rapid growth of technology has impacted every corner of our business. Change is constant, providing opportunity and must not be ignored, from the glasses I use, the beer fonts I install, the point of sale, the sound, lights and furniture. 

Gone are the days of the old boozer, we all are seeking to embrace the contemporary trends sought by sophisticated clientele. Today, in one hotel alone, 64% of revenue is electronic not cash. How times are changing.

What changes would you like to see over the next two to five years in the industry?
 
Like others I sincerely hope for change across a range of issues. Firstly, more flexibility for employers in engaging employees.
 
Secondly, Governments to embrace the philosophy that laws relating to behavior and anti-social activity need additional focus on individuals taking responsibility for their actions, and judicial decisions to reflect community concerns rather than the current perception of treating perpetrators as victims themselves in many cases.
 
Finally I would like Governments to encourage more investment in not just our buildings, fittings and fixtures but our employees. The Hospitality supply chain directly employs around 750,000 people across Australia, our great desire is to have governments acknowledge this and foster our growth and prosperity.