Meet the Team Behind NCASS: The People Supporting Independent Hospitality

Behind every independent food business is a story of passion, pressure, and perseverance. But while traders are busy running kitchens, serving customers, and building brands, there’s another team working behind the scenes to support them every step of the way.

At NCASS, that support comes from people who understand the realities of hospitality because they see it every day. From helping businesses navigate compliance to securing meaningful savings and creating tools that genuinely make life easier, the team plays a vital role in keeping the sector moving forward.

As Marketing Director Adam Palethorpe puts it, today’s operators are often “wearing every hat: owner, chef, compliance, marketing, accounts, the lot.” With so much to juggle, time and headspace are in short supply—making practical, effective support more important than ever.

That’s where NCASS steps in. Whether it’s simplifying complex processes or building systems from the ground up, the focus is always on real-world impact. Adam highlights that mindset clearly: “we don’t just represent the sector, we design and build the tools members use day to day.”

But support isn’t just about systems—it’s about people.

For Senior Membership Executive Becky Gordon, it’s the human side of the industry that stands out most. Having worked in hospitality since she was 16, she sees firsthand the dedication behind every business: “independent businesses care about their products, their customers, and their teams,” she explains. Being part of that journey—from early ideas to major milestones—is what makes the role so rewarding: “I love helping people turn their dreams into reality.”

That sense of connection runs throughout the team.

Partnerships Manager Demi Lockett focuses on making sure members get tangible value back in a challenging climate, where margins are tight and every saving counts. For her, a successful partnership is simple: “the partnership must provide a real benefit to our members.” Whether that’s through discounts, cashback, or expert advice, the goal is always to ease pressure and create opportunities.

Meanwhile, Lead Graphic Designer Scott Darnley is focused on clarity in a fast-moving, often overwhelming industry. His work touches everything from campaigns to member communications, all with one aim in mind: “making members’ lives easier so they quickly understand what they get and what they need to do.” Because when you’re short on time, good design isn’t just visual—it’s functional.

Across every role, there’s a shared understanding of what makes this industry special.

“It’s full of character and creativity,” Demi says, even in tough times. And that resilience is something the whole team recognises—whether they’re speaking to members, building tools, or creating campaigns.

Because ultimately, NCASS isn’t just about services or systems. It’s about supporting people who are building something of their own.

Or, as Becky puts it: “NCASS is an investment, not an expense.”