Interview with TUCO Chair

Richard McGloin

Richard McGloin is the new TUCO national chair, following the election at the annual general meeting at this year’s TUCO conference.
Richard has been a TUCO member for six years and already sits on the chairs’ group. He told TUCO.org about his plans for the future and how he will take the organisation forward in the coming year.

How do you feel about being elected TUCO’s new chair?
I’m very pleased; it’s an honour to be elected. TUCO has a good reputation within the university and wider catering sector. I think it is important not to forget that TUCO is there to support its members and, as chairman, I feel it is my responsibility to ensure the members get the most from it.
What are your biggest plans for TUCO in the coming year?
I think one thing we need to review is communication. We need to communicate better at regional levels with the universities that do not participate in TUCO activities. I think also, while some people are reluctant to sit on the different groups within TUCO because of busy work schedules, we should be looking to invite people with a particular expertise to join in and give advice where they can.
What do you see as the biggest challenges faced by TUCO?
I think there are several challenges. As I have already mentioned, engaging more members is important. The industry is facing a massive skills shortage – especially in the area of production; I think the organisation has a role in supporting this through the development and training initiatives it offers.
Did your position as regional chair help prepare you for this role?
I think we’ve got to do more succession planning. We need to get people learning the ropes but without feeling under obligation. Being a regional chair gave me some experience. I got to sit on the national chairs’ group as regional chair and this has been a big learning curve. Since I put my name forward for TUCO chair everybody has been really supportive. I don’t think I could have done it without the support of the rest of the chairman’s group.