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New MD appointment at Rapport

Image credit: Jodi Hinds

Rapport, Compass Group UK & Ireland’s specialist provider of guest services, has appointed Dirk Talsma as its new Managing Director.

Talsma will take over the role from current MD, Greg Mace, who is stepping down at the end of July.

Matthew Thomas, Managing Director, RA Group said: “Greg leaves behind a fantastic legacy, having set up and run the business over the past 10 years. He has grown Rapport into the successful front of house and guest services market leading proposition it is now, which has also seen it expand into other countries. Rapport’s people and customer centred focus has received a number of high-profile industry accolades, which is a great testament to the commitment, engagement and hard work of Greg and his team. We wish Greg all the very best for the future.”

Talsma attended one of Europe’s most prestigious hotel schools and went on to graduate from Leeds Metropolitan University with a degree in Hospitality and Business Management and in 2019 completed an Executive MBA programme at The University of Surrey with Distinction. His early career included spells in some of UK’s finest hotels including the Royal Lancaster, London and Sopwell House, Hertfordshire. Talsma then moved into a Regional Manager role for a collection of private Country Estates before joining Rapport as Head of Operations in 2015.

Thomas added: “I am delighted to appoint Dirk Talsma as Managing Director for Rapport moving forward. Dirk is currently Director of Strategy and Business Operations and has been an integral part of the Rapport business for the past five years. He brings great passion and expertise to the role and I have no doubt will continue to deliver the exceptional service to clients and customers that Rapport has become renowned for.”

Commenting on his appointment Talsma said: “I am looking forward to leading Rapport, following what has been a really challenging time for our teams and clients. Throughout the pandemic we have focused on our ambassador’s wellbeing and supporting our clients and as lockdown restrictions ease, I am looking forward to welcoming clients and their employees back to their workplaces. Creating meaningful and memorable experiences has never been more important. We are also working on a number of exciting projects that will even further enhance our client proposition, promote our ambassador’s wellbeing and will cement our position as market leader. I feel exceptionally privileged to have been under Greg’s mentorship over the last five years and will continue to build on the legacy that he leaves behind.”

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