Gwendoline Theodet, Regional Business Development Director of Wilson Associates’ London, New York, and Paris Studios has been appointed President of the NEWH Paris Chapter. Widely recognised as the network for relationship-building in the hospitality industry, its NEWH Paris Chapter is committed to serving the local design community through educational programs, volunteer projects, and supporting educational institutions. In this new role, Theodet will oversee all aspects of the chapter, bringing with her a breadth of expertise in fashion, retail, communications, architecture, and design.
“We are excited to welcome Gwendoline to lead multiple strategies across the Paris Chapter of NEWH,” said Chris Tucker, President of NEWH, Inc. “Gwendoline’s diverse experience and current position at Wilson Associates will give her the ability to build a successful board, as well as help drive opportunities for current and future members to become involved through various educational and networking initiatives.”
As President of the chapter, Theodet will be responsible for constituting a board with motivated individuals who will elevate the initiatives and deliverables for NEWH. With many delays in the chapter’s agenda due to the national lockdown, which occurred just days after the Paris Chapter appointed its new President, Theodet will be challenged with the integration of new rules and regulations in an effort to maintain NEWH’s commitment to serving those in the hospitality industry. In a country, such as France, where the culture of networking is not as intuitive as in the United States, the current lockdown presents an additional challenge, one that will warrant finding new opportunities to connect and educate professionals.
As Regional Business Development Director at Wilson Associates, Theodet is very familiar with the industry and its hosted events. This allows her to stay connected to the different NEWH chapters around the world and assist her team members through the various contacts she has around the globe.
“I am very honoured to hold this position and I’m especially grateful for the trust that the organisation has placed in me,” said Theodet. “I personally hope to be able to help the new Paris Chapter grow and become a solid component of NEWH.”
As President, Theodet has plans to seamlessly blend French culture with a tailored approach to networking in an effort to grow the organisation’s community. She plans to organise private tours of exhibitions and visits of ateliers to emphasise the discovery of craftsmanship to highlight French culture and savoir-faire. Additionally, the chapter has plans to extend the funding of scholarships to craftsmen as many of them struggle to find staff to transmit their passion and know-how.
